CLASSES

DEA CLASS

OTC, Rx

DESCRIPTION

Naturally occurring adrenal steroid hormone with glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid activityA preferred corticosteroid for adrenal insufficiency states; also used for a variety of inflammatory diseases systemically and rectallyTopical dosage forms are considered low-potency; used for mild to moderate corticosteroid responsive dermatoses

Although the manufacturer recommends 200 to 500 mg IV or IM every 2 to 6 hours starting at the beginning of the surgical procedure or the onset of the acute physiologic stressor , recommendations developed from the literature and expert opinion suggest lower doses are effective and decrease the risk of adverse effects (e.g., hyperglycemia, immunosuppression). A single dose of 25 mg IV/IM is recommended by one author , and 50 to 100 mg IV/IM is recommended by another. In the case of surgeries, the dose should be administered before the procedure. Although hydrocortisone has historically been the preferred agent, some experts recommend longer acting steroids such as methylprednisolone or dexamethasone. In addition to the supplementation doses, patients who are treated with chronic steroids should also be given their usual dose or equivalent for the acute period; patients receiving the equivalent to prednisone 5 mg/day (i.e., hydrocortisone 20 mg/day) or less do not require additional supplementation.

Although the manufacturer recommends 200 to 500 mg IV or IM every 2 to 6 hours starting at the beginning of the surgical procedure or the onset of the acute physiologic stressor , recommendations developed from the literature and expert opinion suggest lower doses are effective and decrease the risk of adverse effects (e.g., hyperglycemia, immunosuppression). One author recommends 50 to 75 mg IV/IM on the day of the procedure; then, taper to the usual dose over the next 1 to 2 days. Another author recommends 50 mg IV/IM every 6 hours during the medical or surgical stress; then, taper the dose by 50% every day until the usual dose is reached. Although hydrocortisone has historically been the preferred agent, some experts recommend longer acting steroids such as methylprednisolone or dexamethasone. In addition to the supplementation doses, patients who are treated with chronic steroids should also be given their usual dose or equivalent for the acute period; patients receiving the equivalent to prednisone 5 mg/day (i.e., hydrocortisone 20 mg/day) or less do not require additional supplementation.

Although the manufacturer recommends 200 to 500 mg IV or IM every 2 to 6 hours starting at the beginning of surgical procedure or the onset of the acute physiologic stressor , recommendations developed from the literature and expert opinion suggest lower doses are effective and decrease the risk of adverse effects (e.g., hyperglycemia, immunosuppression). In severe illnesses or major surgeries, one author recommends 100 to 150 mg IV/IM on the day of the procedure; taper to the usual dose over the next 1 to 2 days. Another author recommends 50 mg IV/IM every 6 hours during the medical or surgical stress; then, taper the dose by 50% every day until the usual dose is reached. Although hydrocortisone has historically been the preferred agent, some experts recommend longer acting steroids such as methylprednisolone or dexamethasone. In addition to the supplementation doses, patients who are treated with chronic steroids should also be given their usual dose or equivalent for the acute period; patients receiving the equivalent to prednisone 5 mg/day (i.e., hydrocortisone 20 mg/day) or less do not require additional supplementation.

For adrenal crisis prophylaxis in adult patients with known or suspected adrenal insufficiency and a critical illness (e.g., shock).

Although the manufacturer recommends 200 to 500 mg IV or IM every 2 to 6 hours starting at the beginning the acute physiologic stressor , recommendations developed from the literature and expert opinion suggest lower doses are effective. In critically ill patients, 50 to 100 mg IV every 6 to 8 hours or 0.18 mg/kg/hour as a continuous IV infusion until the shock is resolved has been recommended; 50 mcg/day of fludrocortisone is also recommended in this situation. Once the shock is resolved, the hydrocortisone can be gradually tapered; follow vital signs and serum sodium concentrations closely. Although, hydrocortisone has historically been the preferred agent, some experts recommend longer acting steroids such as methylprednisolone or dexamethasone. In addition to the supplementation doses, patients who are treated with chronic steroids should also be given their usual dose or equivalent for the acute period; patients receiving the equivalent to prednisone 5 mg/day (i.e., hydrocortisone 20 mg/day) or less do not require additional supplementation.

100 to 500 mg IM or IV. May repeat every 2 to 6 hours depending upon patient condition and response.

Adolescents and Children

Initially, 50 to 75 mg/m2/dose or 2 to 3 mg/kg/dose IM or IV (Max: 100 mg), followed by 50 to 75 mg/m2/day IM or IV divided every 6 hours.

Infants and Neonates

Initially, 50 to 75 mg/m2/dose or 2 to 3 mg/kg/dose IM or IV (Max: 100 mg), followed by 50 to 75 mg/m2/day or 4 to 20 mg/kg/day IM or IV divided every 6 hours.

For adrenal crisis prophylaxis in pediatric patients with known or suspected adrenal insufficiency with other acute stressors (e.g., febrile illness with a temperature more than 38.5 degrees Celsius, gastroenteritis with dehydration, major trauma):.

An initial dose of 50 mg/m2 IM will provide 6 to 8 hours of coverage. If the patient's condition does not improve or worsens during this time, IV stress dosing (3 to 4 times the daily maintenance dose divided every 6 hours) may need to be initiated. Alternatively, an initial dose of 100 mg IM has been recommended for patients with CAH.

Children 1 to 5 years

An initial dose of 50 mg/m2 IM will provide 6 to 8 hours of coverage. If the patient's condition does not improve or worsens during this time, IV stress dosing (3 to 4 times the daily maintenance dose divided every 6 hours) may need to be initiated. Alternatively, an initial dose of 50 mg IM has been recommended for patients with CAH.

Infants and Neonates

An initial dose of 50 mg/m2 IM will provide 6 to 8 hours of coverage. If the patient's condition does not improve or worsens during this time, IV stress dosing (3 to 4 times the daily maintenance dose divided every 6 hours) may need to be initiated. Alternatively, an initial dose of 25 mg IM has been recommended for patients with CAH.

Oral dosage

Adolescents, Children, Infants, and Neonates

30 to 50 mg/m2/day PO given in 3 to 4 divided doses (approximately triple the daily maintenance dose) is commonly recommended. Varying recommendations of increases in the daily maintenance dose anywhere from 2 to 10 times have been made depending on the level of stress and the patient's individual needs.

Rectal dosage†

Adolescents, Children, and Infants

100 mg/m2/dose PR every 8 hours has been recommended as an alternative to parenteral administration in patients who cannot tolerate oral administration due to illness. Due to large interindividual differences in bioavailability, higher doses (150 to 200 mg/m2/dose PR) may be required in patients who do not show an adequate response (serum cortisol concentration more than 1,000 nmol/L 3 hours after administration). It is recommended that patients response to rectal hydrocortisone be tested prior to use during illness. In a study of patients with adrenal insufficiency (n = 57, age 1 month to 17 years), 43 patients responded adequately to a dose of 100 mg/m2 rectally. Risk factors for failed response included younger age and obesity. Suppositories used in this study were compounded in a Witepsol W45 base.

For adrenal crisis prophylaxis in pediatric patients with known or suspected adrenal insufficiency undergoing surgery accompanied by general anesthesia.

50 mg/m2 IV 30 to 60 minutes prior to induction of anesthesia,with repeat doses of 50 mg/m2/dose IV every 6 hours or as a continuous infusion until the patient has recovered, has been recommended. For patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), 2 mg/kg/dose IV at induction of anesthesia with repeat doses every 4 hours or as a continuous IV infusion for prolonged procedures or recovery times has also been recommended. Alternatively, an initial stress dose of 100 mg IM followed by IV doses equivalent to 3 to 4 times the daily maintenance dose divided every 6 hours has been recommended.

Children 1 to 5 years

50 mg/m2 IV 30 to 60 minutes prior to induction of anesthesia, with repeat doses of 50 mg/m2/dose IV every 6 hours or as a continuous infusion until the patient has recovered, has been recommended. For patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), 2 mg/kg/dose IV at induction of anesthesia with repeat doses every 4 hours or as a continuous IV infusion for prolonged procedures or recovery times has also been recommended. Alternatively, an initial stress dose of 50 mg IM followed by IV doses equivalent to 3 to 4 times the daily maintenance dose divided every 6 hours has been recommended.

Infants and Neonates

50 mg/m2 IV 30 to 60 minutes prior to induction of anesthesia, with repeat doses of 50 mg/m2/dose IV every 6 hours or as a continuous infusion until the patient has recovered, has been recommended. For patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), 2 mg/kg/dose IV at induction of anesthesia with repeat doses every 4 hours or as a continuous IV infusion for prolonged procedures or recovery times has also been recommended. Alternatively, an initial stress dose of 25 mg IM followed by IV doses equivalent to 3 to 4 times the daily maintenance dose divided every 6 hours has been recommended.

Oral dosage

Adults

20 to 240 mg/day PO given in 2 to 4 divided doses.

Adolescents and Children

Initially, 8 to 20 mg/m2/day PO given in 3 divided doses; individualize doses to minimize symptoms of adrenal insufficiency while avoiding growth retardation and Cushingoid symptoms that occur with overdosage. A usual dose of 5 to 10 mg/day PO 3 times daily has been recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Doses more than 17 mg/m2/day in adolescents have been associated with loss of height and shorter adult height. Patients with primary adrenal insufficiency may require higher initial doses then those with secondary adrenal insufficiency. Patients with classic CAH also require treatment with fludrocortisone (0.05 to 0.3 mg/day PO given in 1 to 2 divided doses).

Infants and Neonates

Initially, 8 to 20 mg/m2/day PO given in 3 divided doses; individualize doses to minimize symptoms of adrenal insufficiency while avoiding growth retardation and Cushingoid symptoms that occur with overdosage. A usual dose of 2.5 to 5 mg/day PO 3 times daily has been recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Doses more than 20 mg/m2/day PO have been associated with loss of height and shorter adult height. Patients with primary adrenal insufficiency may require higher initial doses then those with secondary adrenal insufficiency. Neonates and infants with classic CAH also require treatment with fludrocortisone (0.05 to 0.3 mg/day PO given in 1 to 2 divided doses) and sodium chloride supplementation (1 to 2 grams/day or 17 to 34 mEq/day PO divided and given with several feedings).

For use in nonspecific proctitis, postirradiation (factitial) proctitis, cryptitis, or for other non-specific inflammatory conditions of the anorectum.

Rectal dosage (rectal suppositories)

Adults

For nonspecific proctitis, insert 1 suppository PR twice per day, morning and evening, for 2 weeks. May give 1 suppository PR 3 times per day, or 2 suppositories PR twice per day, if needed. For factitial proctitis, the recommended duration of therapy is 6 to 8 weeks or less, depending on response.

For the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis).

For adjunctive treatment of Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis using oral or parenteral therapy.

Oral dosage

Adults

20 to 240 mg (base)/day PO, given in 2 to 4 divided doses.

Infants, Children, and Adolescents

A general dose range of 0.56 to 8 mg/kg/day or 16 to 240 mg/m2/day PO given in 3 to 4 divided doses has been recommended. Adjust according to patient response.

0.56 to 8 mg/kg/day or 20 to 240 mg/m2/day IM or IV given in 3 to 4 divided dose is the FDA-approved general dosage range. Adjust according to patient response.

For adjunctive rectal treatment of chronic ulcerative colitis, particularly if disease limited to the distal portion of the rectum.

Rectal dosage (rectal retention enema suspension)

Adults

100 mg PR, as a retention enema, nightly for 21 nights or until clinical and proctological remission are achieved. Clinical symptoms usually subside promptly within 3 to 5 days. However, improvement in the appearance of the mucosa, as seen by sigmoidoscopic examination, may lag somewhat behind clinical improvement. If clinical or proctologic improvement fails to occur within 2 or 3 weeks, discontinue. Difficult but responding cases may require as long as 2 or 3 months of treatment. If treatment is continued for longer than 21 nights, therapy should be withdrawn gradually by giving the product every other night for 2 to 3 weeks, then discontinuing it.

Rectal foam dosage (hydrocortisone acetate rectal foam)

Adults

One applicatorful (90 mg of hydrocortisone acetate) PR once daily or twice per day for 2 to 3 weeks, and every second day thereafter. Rectal foam formulation usually reserved for treatment of ulcerative proctitis in patients who cannot retain corticosteroid enemas.

Rectal dosage (hydrocortisone acetate rectal suppositories)

Adults

Insert 1 suppository PR 2 to 3 times per day, for 2 weeks. For more severe cases may use 2 suppositories PR twice per day.

For the relief of inflammation, pruritus ani, and swelling associated with hemorrhoids.

External topical dosage (hydrocortisone cream)

Adults

Apply to the external affected area (skin outside the anus) as a thin film from 2 to 4 times daily depending on the severity of the condition. Not for rectal use.

For the non-emergent treatment of hypersensitivity or allergic conditions.

Oral dosage

Adults

20 to 240 mg/day PO, given in 2 to 4 divided doses.

Adolescents, Children, and Infants

A general dose range of 0.56 to 8 mg/kg/day or 16 to 240 mg/m2/day PO given in 3 to 4 divided doses has been recommended. Adjust according to patient response.

For the urgent treatment of severe conditions such as anaphylaxis, angioedema, acute noninfectious laryngeal edema, or urticarial transfusion-related reactions.

Intravenous dosage (hydrocortisone sodium succinate injection)

Adults

The FDA-approved general dosage range is 100 to 500 mg IV; repeat doses at 2, 4, or 6 hour intervals as indicated. However, in certain acute, life-threatening situations, higher doses (e.g., 5 to 10 mg/kg/dose IV [Max: 625 mg/dose]) may be justified according to practice parameters.

Adolescents, Children, and Infants

The FDA-approved general dosage range is 0.56 to 8 mg/kg/day or 20 to 240 mg/m2/day IV given in 3 to 4 divided doses. However, in certain acute, life-threatening situations, higher doses may be justified.

Apply topically and sparingly to affected areas 2 to 4 times per day. Follow the directions on the specific product labeling. Occlusive dressings may be used for the management of psoriasis or refractory conditions; however, occlusive dressings can increase absorption as much as 10 to 100 times which may increase the risk of systemic adverse reactions. Avoid the use of tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants in patients being treated in the diaper area as these may act as an occlusive dressing. For self-medication, apply a 0.5% or 1% non-prescription topical product to affected areas not more than 3 to 4 times per day. If condition worsens, or if symptoms persist for more than 7 days or clear up and occur again within a few days, discontinue therapy.

Infants and Children up to 2 years

Only for use with a prescriber's prescription. Apply topically and sparingly to affected areas 2 to 4 times per day. Follow the directions on the specific product labeling. Occlusive dressings may be used for the management of psoriasis or refractory conditions; however, occlusive dressings can increase absorption as much as 10 to 100 times which may increase the risk of systemic adverse reactions. Avoid the use of tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants in patients being treated in the diaper area as these may act as an occlusive dressing.

Topical dosage (hydrocortisone valerate)

Adults

Apply a thin film to the affected areas 2 or 3 times daily, depending on severity of the condition. If no improvement observed after 2 weeks, reassess diagnosis.

Apply sparingly to affected areas 2 to 3 times per day. Follow the directions on the specific product labeling. Occlusive dressings may be used for the management of psoriasis or refractory conditions; however, occlusive dressings can increase absorption as much as 10 to 100 times which may increase the risk of systemic adverse reactions. When used in small children, advise caregivers to avoid the use of tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants in patients being treated in the diaper area as these may act as an occlusive dressing.

Topical dosage (hydrocortisone butyrate lipocream)

Adults

Apply a thin film to the affected areas 2 or 3 times daily, depending on severity of the condition.

Topical dosage (hydrocortisone probutate cream)

Adults

Apply thin film to affected areas 1 or 2 times daily; if no improvement after 2 weeks, reassess diagnosis.

For mild to moderate atopic dermatitis.

Topical dosage (hydrocortisone butyrate lotion)

Adults

Apply sparingly to affected areas twice daily; if no improvement after 2 weeks, reassess diagnosis. Safety and efficacy have not been established beyond 4 weeks of therapy.

Infants 3 months and older, Children, and Adolscents

Apply sparingly to affected areas twice daily; if no improvement after 2 weeks, reassess diagnosis. Safety and efficacy have not been established beyond 4 weeks of therapy.

Topical dosage (hydrocortisone butyrate lipocream)

Adults

Apply sparingly to affected areas twice daily; if no improvement after 2 weeks, reassess diagnosis. Safety and efficacy have not been established beyond 4 weeks of therapy.

Infants 3 months and older, Children, and Adolescents

Apply sparingly to affected areas twice daily; if no improvement after 2 weeks, reassess diagnosis. Safety and efficacy have not been established beyond 4 weeks of therapy.

0.56 to 8 mg/kg/day or 20 to 240 mg/m2/day IM or IV given in 3 to 4 divided dose is the FDA-approved general dosage range. Adjust according to patient response.

For the treatment of complicated or disseminated pulmonary tuberculosis infection (i.e., tuberculous meningitis and pericarditis) as adjunctive therapy in combination with antituberculous therapy.

Oral dosage

Adults

The FDA-labeled dose is 20 to 240 mg/day PO, depending upon the disease being treated. Adjunctive corticosteroid therapy has been shown to improve survival for patients with tuberculosis involving the CNS and pericardium, but has not been universally recommended by guidelines for all forms of tuberculosis. Initial doses in clinical trials for tuberculosis in general have used IV doses of either 4 mg/kg IV every 24 hours or 150 to 250 mg IV daily; many trials were prior to the use of rifampin, which may decrease bioavailability and increase plasma clearance of corticosteroids. A meta-analysis suggests that steroid use may reduce mortality in all forms of tuberculosis which may be influenced by genetic variation at the LTA4H gene.

Adolescents, Children, and Infants

A general dose range of 0.56 to 8 mg/kg/day or 16 to 240 mg/m2/day PO given in 3 to 4 divided doses has been recommended. Adjust according to patient response.

100 to 500 mg IM or IV; doses may be repeated at 2, 4, or 6 hour intervals. Adjunctive corticosteroid therapy has been shown to improve survival for patients with tuberculosis involving the CNS and pericardium, but has not been universally recommended by guidelines for all forms of tuberculosis. Clinical trials for tuberculosis in general have used IV doses of either 4 mg/kg IV every 24 hours or 150 to 250 mg IV daily; many trials were prior to the use of rifampin, which may decrease bioavailability and increase plasma clearance of corticosteroids. A meta-analysis suggests that steroid use may reduce mortality in all forms of tuberculosis which may be influenced by genetic variation at the LTA4H gene.

Adolescents, Children, and Infants

0.56 to 8 mg/kg/day or 20 to 240 mg/m2/day IM or IV given in 3 to 4 divided dose is the FDA-approved general dosage range. Adjust according to patient response.

For the management of nephrotic syndrome to induce diuresis or decrease proteinuria.

Oral dosage

Adults

20 to 240 mg/day PO, given in 2 to 4 divided doses.

Infants, Children, and Adolescents

A general dose range of 0.56 to 8 mg/kg/day or 16 to 240 mg/m2/day PO given in 3 to 4 divided doses has been recommended. Adjust according to patient response.

20 to 240 mg/day PO, given in 2 to 4 divided doses. Although the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program guidelines recommend prednisone, prednisolone, or methylprednisolone as the systemic corticosteroids of choice for the management of moderate to severe asthma exacerbations, they state that other corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone, given in equipotent daily doses are likely to be as effective. Administer hydrocortisone IV or IM initially for the treatment of severe respiratory conditions or those compromising the airway.

Adolescents, Children, and Infants

A general dose range of 0.56 to 8 mg/kg/day or 16 to 240 mg/m2/day PO given in 3 to 4 divided doses has been recommended. Adjust according to patient response. Although the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program guidelines recommend prednisone, prednisolone, or methylprednisolone as the systemic corticosteroids of choice for the management of moderate to severe asthma exacerbations, they state that other corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone, given in equipotent daily doses are likely to be as effective. Administer hydrocortisone IV or IM initially for the treatment of severe respiratory conditions or those compromising the airway.

100 to 500 mg IM or IV. Repeat doses at 2, 4, or 6 hour intervals. Although the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program guidelines recommend prednisone, prednisolone, or methylprednisolone as the systemic corticosteroids of choice for the management of moderate to severe asthma exacerbations, they state that other corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone, given in equipotent daily doses are likely to be as effective.

Adolescents, Children, and Infants

0.56 to 8 mg/kg/day or 20 to 240 mg/m2/day IM or IV given in 3 to 4 divided dose is the FDA-approved general dosage range. Adjust according to patient response. An initial dose of 6 mg/kg IV followed by 8 to 10 mg/kg/day IV given in 4 divided doses for 1 to 2 days was used in 2 studies (combined n = 85, age 2 months to 11 years) of patients with acute asthma. Although 1 study found improvements in patients receiving hydrocortisone compared to placebo, another study comparing hydrocortisone to dexamethasone found a significantly shorter duration of hospital stay in patients receiving dexamethasone. The National Asthma Education and Prevention Program guidelines recommend prednisone, prednisolone, or methylprednisolone as the systemic corticosteroids of choice for the management of moderate to severe asthma exacerbations; however, the guidelines state that other corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone, given in equipotent daily doses are likely to be as effective.

For the treatment of septic shock† and/or hypotension† in patients whose blood pressure is poorly responsive to adequate fluid resuscitation and vasopressor therapy.

Intravenous dosage (hydrocortisone sodium succinate injection)

Adults

200 mg/day IV continuous infusion if adequate fluid resuscitation and vasopressor therapy are unable to restore hemodynamic stability. Taper dose once vasopressors are no longer required. Hydrocortisone should not be administered in sepsis in the absence of shock. The adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation test is not recommended to identify patients with septic shock who should receive hydrocortisone.

Infants, Children, and Adolescents

An initial dose of 2 mg/kg/day IV or 50 mg/m2/day IV given in divided doses or as a continuous infusion and titrated to resolution of shock to doses as high as 50 mg/kg/day IV is recommended by the Society of Critical Care Medicine for patients with suspected or proven absolute adrenal insufficiency (peak cortisol concentration after corticotropin stimulation less than 18 mcg/dL) or adrenal-pituitary axis failure and catecholamine resistant shock. An initial dose of 100 mg/m2 IV (Max: 200 mg) followed by 25 mg/m2/dose IV every 6 hours (Max: 50 mg/dose) was used in a study of patients with systemic inflammatory response syndrome with hypotension requiring fluid resuscitation and vasopressors (n = 97, age 0.5 months to 24 years). A portion of patients (n = 60) also received fludrocortisone (50 mcg/day PO for patients weighing less than 35 kg and 100 mcg/day PO for patients weighing 35 kg or more).

Neonates

1 mg/kg IV every 8 to 12 hours for 1 to 5 days has been studied in premature and term neonates (combined n from 3 studies = 89, gestational age 23 to 40 weeks). An initial loading dose of 2 mg/kg IV was used in 1 retrospective study and another prospective, observational study used a higher maintenance dose of 3 to 6 mg/kg/day IV divided 2 to 4 times daily in a small number of patients (n = 5) with severe capillary leak syndrome and/or previous steroid treatment. In the largest prospective, randomized, placebo controlled study (n = 48, gestational age 25.2 to 29.9 weeks), patients receiving hydrocortisone 1 mg/kg IV every 8 hours for 5 days required significantly less vasopressor support (lower doses of dopamine and dobutamine, shorter duration of vasopressor therapy, and fewer patients requiring more than 1 vasopressor) compared to patients receiving placebo. The trend of the average mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) was also significantly higher in patients receiving hydrocortisone compared to patients receiving placebo.

For the prevention of chronic lung disease (CLD)† in mechanically ventilated patients.

Intravenous dosage (hydrocortisone sodium succinate injection)

Premature neonates

0.5 mg/kg/dose IV every 12 hours for 9 to 12 days followed by 0.25 mg/kg/day IV every 12 hours for 3 days, started within the first 48 hours of life, has been studied (combined n from 3 studies = 450, birth weight 500 to 1,249 grams). The rate of survival without chronic lung disease (CLD) was significantly increased in 2 studies in patients receiving hydrocortisone compared to those receiving placebo. Although the largest study (n = 360) did not find a significantly increased rate of survival without CLD in the overall study group, the rate of survival without CLD was significantly improved in a subset of patients receiving hydrocortisone who were exposed to chorioamnionitis. This study was terminated early due to a higher incidence of intestinal perforation in patients receiving hydrocortisone and indomethacin (vs. indomethacin plus placebo). The American Academy of Pediatrics states that hydrocortisone at a dose of 1 mg/kg/day IV given for the first 2 weeks of life may increase the rate of survival without CLD, especially in neonates delivered in a setting of prenatal inflammation, without adverse effects on neurodevelopment.

For the treatment of refractory neonatal hypoglycemia†.

Intravenous dosage (hydrocortisone sodium succinate injection)

Neonates

5 mg/kg/day IV given in 2 divided doses has been recommended in neonates not responding to glucose infusions of 12 to 15 mg/kg/minute.

Oral dosage

Neonates

5 mg/kg/day PO given in 2 divided doses has been recommended in neonates not responding to glucose infusions of 12 to 15 mg/kg/minute.

0.56 to 8 mg/kg/day or 20 to 240 mg/m2/day IM or IV given in 3 to 4 divided dose is the FDA-approved general dosage range. Adjust according to patient response.

For adjunctive therapy in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome†.

Local injection (hydrocortisone acetate suspension for injection)

Adults

25 mg as a single injection adjacent to the carpal tunnel has been effective for conservative therapy. Reassess at 6 to 8 weeks. To avoid median-nerve injury, use specialized administration techniques. Use of more than 2 or 3 repeat injections is not advised; local tendon damage may occur. The definitive treatment for median-nerve entrapment is surgery. Corticosteroids are temporary measures; patients who have intermittent pain and paresthesias without any fixed motor-sensory deficits may respond to conservative therapy.

†Indicates off-label use

MAXIMUM DOSAGE

Corticosteroid dosage must be individualized and is highly variable depending on the nature and severity of the disease, and on patient response. There is no absolute maximum dosage.

DOSING CONSIDERATIONS

Hepatic Impairment

Systemic dosage may need adjustment depending on the degree of hepatic insufficiency, but quantitative recommendations are not available.

Renal Impairment

Specific guidelines for dosage adjustments in renal impairment are not available; it appears that no dosage adjustments are needed.

ADMINISTRATION

Oral Administration

Administer with meals to minimize indigestion or GI irritation. If given once daily, administer in the morning to coincide with the body's normal cortisol secretion.

Oral Solid Formulations

Tablets may be crushed and mixed with a small amount of liquid just prior to administration for patient's unable to swallow tablets. Crushed tablets are recommended over oral suspension in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to results of a study showing hydrocortisone cypionate suspension (Cortef suspension) was not bioequivalent to the tablets.

Extemporaneous Compounding-Oral SuspensionExtemporaneous 2.5 mg/ml Hydrocortisone Oral Suspension PreparationDissolve 0.02 gram of methyl hydroxybenzoate, 0.08 gram of propyl hydroxybenzoate, 0.6 gram of citric acid monohydrate, and 10 mL of syrup BP in hot water to make the vehicle.Triturate the cooled vehicle with 1 gram of sodium carboxymethylcellulose and allow solution to stand overnight.Weigh out 250 mg of hydrocortisone powder or grind twelve and one-half (12.5) 20 mg hydrocortisone tablets into a fine powder in a glass mortar.Combine the ground tablets or the 250 mg of hydrocortisone powder with 0.5 mL of polysorbate 80 and triturate.Add the vehicle to the hydrocortisone powder mixture and transfer to amber plastic bottles.Add enough water to bring the total volume to 100 mL.Storage: The resulting suspension is chemically stable at 5 and 25 degrees Celsius for 90 days; however, a 30 day expiration is suggested due to the lack of antimicrobial preservative.

Injectable Administration

Visually inspect parenteral products for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration whenever solution and container permit. Use solution only if it is clear.

Intravenous Administration

Reconstitution and Preparation:100 mg vial: For IV injection, add 2 mL or less of Bacteriostatic Water for Injection or Bacteriostatic Sodium Chloride Injection to the contents of one vial.Further dilution is not necessary for direct IV injection.For intravenous infusion, add 2 mL or less of Bacteriostatic Water for Injection to the vial; this solution may then be added to 100 to 1000 mL of 5% Dextrose, 0.9% Sodium Chloride, or 5% Dextrose with 0.9% Sodium Chloride injection.ACT-O-VIAL presentations: Press down on plastic activator to force diluent into the lower compartment. Gently agitate to effect solution. Remove plastic tab covering center of stopper, and sterilize the stopper top. Insert needle squarely through center of stopper until tip is just visible. Invert vial and withdraw dose. Further dilution is not necessary for direct IV injection.For intravenous infusion, add the 100 mg solution to 100 to 1000 mL of 5% Dextrose, 0.9% Sodium Chloride, or 5% Dextrose with 0.9% Sodium Chloride injection. The 250 mg solution may be added to 250 to 1000 mL, the 500 mg solution may be added to 500 to 1000 mL, and the 1000 mg solution may be added to 1000 mL of the same diluents. Alternatively, 100 to 3000 mg may be added to 50 mL of the above diluents. Do not dilute or mix with other solutions because of possible incompatibilities. The resulting solutions are stable for at least 4 hours.

Continuous IV infusion administration:Reconstituted isolutions may be administered by IV piggyback, but do not dilute or mix with solutions other than 5% Dextrose, 0.9% Sodium Chloride, or 5% Dextrose and 0.9% Sodium Chloride because of possible incompatibilities.

Intramuscular Administration

Reconstitution and Administration100 mg vial: Add 2 mL or less of Bacteriostatic Water for Injection or Bacteriostatic 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection to the contents of 1 vial.ACT-O-VIAL (100mg, 250 mg, 500 mg, 1000 mg): Press down on plastic activator to force diluent into the lower compartment. Gently agitate to effect solution. Remove plastic tab covering center of stopper. Sterilize top of stopper with a suitable germicide. Insert needle squarely through center of stopper until tip is just visible. Invert vial and withdraw dose. Further dilution is not necessary for IM injection.Do NOT administer hydrocortisone IM into the deltoid muscle as subcutaneous atrophy occurs with high frequency after such use.

Topical Administration

Cream/Ointment/Lotion Formulations

Cream, lotion, or ointment: Apply sparingly in a thin film and rub gently into the cleansed affected area. Occlusive dressings may be necessary for severe conditions.

Other Topical Formulations

Solution or gel: Apply sparingly in a thin film and rub gently into the cleansed affected area. Occlusive dressings may be necessary for severe conditions.Aerosol spray: Shake container gently once or twice each time before using. Spray each four square inch area for about 1 to 2 seconds from a distance of about 15 cm.

Rectal Administration

Aerosol Rectal Foam:Wash hands before and after application.Place cap on top of container and shake the container vigorously for 5 to 10 seconds before each use; cap should not be removed during use.Hold container upright on a level surface and gently place the tip of the applicator onto the nose of the container cap. Container must be held upright to obtain proper flow of medication.Pull applicator plunger past the fill line on the applicator barrel.To fill the applicator barrel, press down firmly on cap flanges, hold for 1 to 2 seconds, and release. Allow 5 to 10 seconds for foam to expand in the applicator barrel. Repeat until the foam reaches the fill line. Remove applicator from container cap. A burst of air may be released from container with the first pump.Hold applicator firmly by barrel, making sure thumb and middle finger are positioned securely underneath and resting against barrel wings. Place index finger over the plunger. Gently insert tip into anus. Once in place, push plunger to expel foam, then withdraw applicator. Apply to anus only with the applicator provided with the foam. Do not insert any part of the applicator past the anus into the rectum. Fingers or any other mechanical device should not be used to administer the aerosol foam. Do not insert any part of the aerosol container directly into the anus.The container and cap should be disassembled and rinsed with warm water after each use. The applicator parts should be pulled apart for thorough cleaning with warm water after each use.

Rectal Retention Enema:Instruct patient to lie down on left side during administration and for 30 minutes afterwards to allow the medication to distribute throughout the colon. Encourage patient to retain enema for at least 1 hour or, preferably, all night before expelling.

Rectal Suppository:Instruct patient on proper use of suppository. Unwrap the suppository prior to insertion. Moisten the suppository with water prior to insertion. If suppository is too soft because of storage in a warm place, chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or run cold water over it before removing wrapper.

Topical Cream for hemorrhoids:Apply as a thin film to the cleansed affected area around the anus. Do not insert rectally.

CONTRAINDICATIONS / PRECAUTIONS

Abrupt discontinuation, Cushing's syndrome, skin abrasion

Systemic corticosteroids can aggravate Cushing's syndrome and should be avoided in patients with Cushing's syndrome. Prolonged administration of pharmacological doses of systemic corticosteroids or topical preparations (resulting in systemic absorption) may result in hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) suppression and/or manifestations of Cushing's syndrome in some patients. Acute adrenal insufficiency and even death may occur following abrupt discontinuation of prolonged systemic therapy. In addition, a withdrawal syndrome unrelated to adrenocortical insufficiency may occur following sudden discontinuation of corticosteroid therapy. These effects are thought to be due to the sudden change in glucocorticoid concentration rather than to low corticosteroid levels. Withdrawal from prolonged systemic corticosteroid therapy should be gradual. HPA suppression can last for up to 12 months following cessation of systemic therapy. Recovery of HPA axis function is generally prompt and complete upon discontinuation of the topical corticosteroid. HPA-suppressed patients may need supplemental corticosteroid treatment during periods of physiologic stress, such as surgical procedures, acute blood loss, or infection, even after the corticosteroid has been discontinued. Conditions that increase systemic absorption of topical corticosteroids include use over large surface areas, prolonged use, use in areas where the epidermal barrier is disrupted (i.e., skin abrasion), and the use of an occlusive dressing. Patients receiving large doses of hydrocortisone applied to a large surface area should be evaluated periodically for evidence of HPA axis suppression and/or manifestations of Cushing's syndrome. If these effects are noted, an attempt should be made to withdraw the drug, to reduce the frequency of application, or to substitute a less potent corticosteroid.

Growth inhibition, increased intracranial pressure

Chronic corticosteroid therapy in pediatric patients may interfere with growth and development. Chronic use of systemic or topical corticosteroids may cause growth inhibition (including linear growth retardation and delayed weight gain) in pediatric patients. Children and infants may absorb proportionally larger amounts of topical corticosteroids due to a larger skin surface area to body weight ratio, and therefore are more susceptible to developing systemic toxicity, especially with very-high-potency topical products. Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression, Cushing's syndrome, and increased intracranial pressure have been reported in children receiving corticosteroids. Administration of corticosteroids to pediatric patients should be limited to the least amount compatible with an effective therapeutic regimen. If children are being treated topically in the diaper area, tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants should be avoided as these garments may act as an occlusive dressing and increase systemic absorption of the drug.

Immunosuppression

Patients receiving high-dose (e.g., equivalent to 1 mg/kg or more of prednisone daily) systemic corticosteroid therapy, such as hydrocortisone, for any period of time, particularly in conjunction with corticosteroid sparing drugs (e.g., troleandomycin) are at risk to develop immunosuppression; patients receiving moderate doses of systemic corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone, for short periods or low doses for prolonged periods may also be at risk. When given in combination with other immunosuppressive agents, there is a risk of over-immunosuppression.

Fungal infection, infection

Systemic corticosteroid therapy, such as hydrocortisone, can mask the symptoms of infection and should not be used in patients with fungal infection or bacterial infection that are not adequately controlled with antiinfective agents. Although the manufacturers state that systemic hydrocortisone is contraindicated in patients with systemic fungal infections, in clinical use systemic corticosteroids can be administered to these patients as long as appropriate antiinfective therapy is administered simultaneously.

Reactivation of tuberculosis may occur in patients with latent tuberculosis or tuberculin reactivity; close observation for disease reactivation is needed if corticosteroids are indicated in such patients. Further, chemoprophylaxis is advised if prolonged corticosteroid therapy is needed. Patients receiving immunosuppressive doses of systemic corticosteroids should be advised to avoid exposure to viral infections (i.e., measles or varicella) because these diseases may be more serious or even fatal in immunosuppressed patients. If exposed to chicken pox, prophylaxis with varicella zoster immune globulin may be indicated. Pediatric patients dependent on systemic corticosteroids should undergo anti-varicella-zoster virus antibody testing. If exposed to measles, prophylaxis with pooled intramuscular immunoglobulin may be indicated. Instruct patients to avoid exposure to chicken pox and measles and to get immediate medical advice if exposure occurs. Application of topical corticosteroids to areas of infection, including tuberculosis of the skin, dermatologic fungal infection, and cutaneous or systemic viral infection (e.g., herpes infection, measles, varicella), should be initiated or continued only if the appropriate antiinfective treatment is instituted. If the infection does not respond to the antimicrobial therapy, the concurrent use of the topical corticosteroid should be discontinued until the infection is controlled. Topical corticosteroids should not be used to treat acne vulgaris, acne rosacea, or perioral dermatitis as they may exacerbate these conditions. Topical corticosteroids may delay the healing of non-infected wounds, such as venous stasis ulcers. Use topical hydrocortisone preparations with caution in patients with markedly impaired circulation or peripheral vascular disease; skin ulceration has been reported in these patients following topical corticosteroid use.

Surgery

If surgery is required, physicians should inquire if the patient has received systemic corticosteroid therapy, such as hydrocortisone, within the last 12 months and discuss the disease for which they were being treated. In such cases, patients should be encouraged to always carry identification cards that include disease state, type, and dose of corticosteroid that was used.

Myocardial infarction

Corticosteroid therapy, such as hydrocortisone, has been associated with left ventricular free-wall rupture in patients with recent myocardial infarction, and should therefore be used cautiously in these patients.

Heart failure, hypertension

Systemic corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone, can cause edema and weight gain. Use with caution in patients with congestive heart failure or hypertension as this can cause an exacerbation of their condition.

Osteoporosis

Prolonged systemic corticosteroid therapy, such as hydrocortisone, can lead to osteoporosis, vertebral compression fractures, aseptic necrosis of femoral and humoral heads, and pathologic fractures of long bones secondary to protein catabolism. Use cautiously in older (>= 65 years), debilitated, or postmenopausal patients because they are especially susceptible to these adverse effects. A high-protein diet may alleviate or prevent the adverse effects associated with protein catabolism.

Diabetes mellitus

Systemic corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone, may decrease glucose tolerance, produce hyperglycemia, and aggravate or precipitate diabetes mellitus. This may especially occur in patients predisposed to diabetes mellitus. When corticosteroid therapy is necessary in patients with diabetes mellitus, changes in insulin, oral antidiabetic agent dosage, and/or diet may be required. Topical corticosteroids should be used with caution in patients with diabetes mellitus. Exacerbation of diabetes may occur with systemic absorption of the topical corticosteroid. Use of topical corticosteroids may further delay healing of skin ulcers in diabetic patients.

Oral corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone, can cause gastrointestinal irritation. The drugs should be used with caution in patients with GI disease, diverticulitis, nonspecific ulcerative colitis, or intestinal anastomosis (because of the possibility of perforation). While used for the short-term treatment of acute exacerbations of chronic inflammatory bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, corticosteroids should not be used in patients where there is a possibility of impending GI perforation, abscess, or pyogenic infection. Some patients may require long-term corticosteroid therapy to suppress disease activity, but generally this practice is not recommended. Corticosteroids should not be used in patients with peptic ulcer disease except under life-threatening circumstances.

Systemic corticosteroids should be used with extreme caution in patients with psychosis, emotional instability, renal disease, and seizure disorder because the drugs can exacerbate these conditions. Patients with hepatic disease, such as cirrhosis, or hypothyroidism can have an exaggerated response to systemic corticosteroids. Use systemic corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone, with caution in these patients.

Myasthenia gravis

Systemic glucocorticoids, such as hydrocortisone, should be used with caution in patients with myasthenia gravis who are being treated with anticholinesterase agents (see Drug Interactions).

Coagulopathy, hemophilia, thromboembolic disease

Systemic corticosteroids rarely may increase blood coagulability, causing intravascular thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, and thromboembolism. Therefore, systemic corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone, should be used with caution in patients with preexisting coagulopathy (e.g., hemophilia) or thromboembolic disease.

Pregnancy

Systemic and rectal preparations of hydrocortisone must be used with caution during human pregnancy. Corticosteroids are generally teratogenic in laboratory animals when administered systemically at relatively low dosage levels. Complications, including cleft palate, stillbirth, and premature abortion, have been reported during animal studies. If hydrocortisone must be used during pregnancy, the potential risks should be discussed with the patient. However, insufficient treatment of an underlying condition (e.g., Addison's disease) during pregnancy is also associated with fetal and maternal risks and the mother may require additional monitoring to ensure adequate replacement during pregnancy and in the post-partum period as requirements return to pre-pregnancy levels. Infants born to mothers who have taken substantial doses of corticosteroids during pregnancy should be monitored for signs of hypoadrenalism. Topical application of hydrocortisone warrants caution during pregnancy as there are no adequate and well-controlled studies. Topical corticosteroids should not be used in large amounts, on large areas, or for prolonged periods of time in pregnant women. Guidelines recommend mild to moderate potency agents, such as topical hydrocortisone, over potent topical corticosteroids, which should be used in short durations. Fetal growth restriction and a significantly increased risk of low birthweight has been reported with use of potent or very potent topical corticosteroids during the third trimester, particularly when using more than 300 grams. Corticosteroids are generally teratogenic in laboratory animals when administered systemically at relatively low dosage levels. The more potent corticosteroids have been shown to be teratogenic after dermal application in laboratory animals. Systemic corticosteroids have been shown to impair fertility in male rats; the impact to human male fertility is not certain.

Breast-feeding

The use of systemic and rectal hydrocortisone has not been studied during breast-feeding; however cortisol is a normal component of breast milk. Other corticosteroids (prednisone and prednisolone) are usually considered compatible with breast-feeding. It is not known whether topical administration of desonide could result in sufficient systemic absorption to produce detectable quantities in breast milk. However, most dermatologists stress that topical corticosteroids can be safely used during lactation and breast-feeding. If applied topically, care should be used to ensure the infant will not come into direct contact with the area of application, such as the breast. Increased blood pressure has been reported in an infant whose mother applied a high potency topical corticosteroid ointment directly to the nipples. Consider the benefits of breast-feeding, the risk of potential infant drug exposure, and the risk of an untreated or inadequately treated condition. If a breast-feeding infant experiences an adverse effect related to a maternally ingested drug, healthcare providers are encouraged to report the adverse effect to the FDA.

Vaccination

Corticosteroid therapy, such as hydrocortisone, usually does not contraindicate vaccination with live-virus vaccines when such therapy is of short-term (< 2 weeks); low to moderate dose; long-term alternate day treatment with short-acting preparations; maintenance physiologic doses (replacement therapy); or administration topically (skin or eye), by aerosol, or by intra-articular, bursal or tendon injection. The immunosuppressive effects of steroid treatment differ, but many clinicians consider a dose equivalent to either 2 mg/kg/day or 20 mg/day of prednisone as sufficiently immunosuppressive to raise concern about the safety of immunization with live-virus vaccines. In general, patients with severe immunosuppression due to large doses of corticosteroids should not receive vaccination with live-virus vaccines. When cancer chemotherapy or immunosuppressive therapy is being considered (e.g., for patients with Hodgkin's disease or organ transplantation), vaccination should precede the initiation of chemotherapy or immunotherapy by >= 2 weeks. Patients vaccinated while on immunosuppressive therapy or in the 2 weeks prior to starting therapy should be considered unimmunized and should be revaccinated at least 3 months after discontinuation of therapy. In patients who have received high-dose, systemic corticosteroids for >= 2 weeks, it is recommended to wait at least 3 months after discontinuation of therapy before administering a live-virus vaccine.

Asthma, sulfite hypersensitivity

Some commercially available formulations of hydrocortisone may contain sulfites. Sulfites may cause allergic reactions in some people. They should be used with caution in patients with known sulfite hypersensitivity. Patients with asthma are more likely to experience this sensitivity reaction than non-asthmatic patients.

Neonates, premature neonates

Several commercial formulations of hydrocortisone injection are contraindicated in premature neonates because these products contain benzyl alcohol. Use these formulations of hydrocortisone with caution in neonates. Administration of benzyl alcohol to neonates can result in a 'gasping syndrome', which is a potentially fatal condition characterized by metabolic acidosis and CNS, respiratory, circulatory, and renal dysfunction; it is also characterized by high concentrations of benzyl alcohol and its metabolites in the blood and urine. While the minimum amount of benzyl alcohol at which toxicity may occur is not known, 'gasping syndrome' has been associated with benzyl alcohol dosages more than 99 mg/kg/day in neonates and low-birth-weight neonates. Additional symptoms may include gradual neurological deterioration, seizures, intracranial hemorrhage, hematologic abnormalities, skin breakdown, hepatic failure, renal failure, hypotension, bradycardia, and cardiovascular collapse. Rare cases of death, primarily in premature neonates, have been reported. Further, an increased incidence of kernicterus, especially in small, premature neonates has been reported. Practitioners administering this and other medications containing benzyl alcohol should consider the combined daily metabolic load of benzyl alcohol from all sources. Premature neonates, neonates with a low birth weight, and patients who receive a high dose may be more likely to develop toxicity.

Benzyl alcohol hypersensitivity, corticosteroid hypersensitivity

True corticosteroid hypersensitivity reactions are rare. While a hypersensitivity reaction could be to a specific salt of the corticosteroid (i.e., hydrocortisone sodium succinate), patients who have demonstrated a prior hypersensitivity reaction to hydrocortisone should receive any form of hydrocortisone with extreme caution. It is possible, though also rare, that such patients will display cross-hypersensitivity to other corticosteroids; there have been reports that a cross-sensitivity between hydrocortisone and methylprednisolone may exist. Rare instances of anaphylactoid reactions have occurred in patients receiving corticosteroid therapy. It is advisable that patients who have a hypersensitivity reaction to any corticosteroid undergo skin testing, which, although not a conclusive predictor, may help to determine if hypersensitivity to another corticosteroid exists. Such patients should be carefully monitored during and following the administration of any corticosteroid. Some injectable formulations of hydrocortisone contain benzyl alcohol and should be used with caution in those patients with benzyl alcohol hypersensitivity.

Corticosteroids should be used cautiously in patients with glaucoma or any other visual disturbance. Corticosteroids are well known to cause cataracts and can exacerbate glaucoma during long-term administration. Patients receiving corticosteroids chronically should be periodically assessed for cataract formation. There is also an increase in the propensity for secondary ocular infection caused by fungal or viral infections. Care should be taken to avoid ocular exposure; ophthalmic administration of topical hydrocortisone preparations should be avoided. Visual impairment, ocular hypertension and worsened cataracts have been reported with ocular exposure to other high potency topical corticosteroids. Preexisting glaucoma may be aggravated if hydrocortisone is applied in the periorbital area.

Skin atrophy

Injection of hydrocortisone may result in dermal and/or subdermal changes forming depressions in the skin at the injection site. In order to minimize the incidence of subdermal and dermal atrophy, care must be exercised not to exceed recommended doses in injections. Injection into the deltoid muscle should be avoided because of a high incidence of subcutaneous atrophy. Topical corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone, should be used for brief periods, or under close medical supervision in patients with evidence of pre-existing skin atrophy. Use of lower potency topical corticosteroids may be necessary in some patients, such as the elderly adult. Prolonged use of a topical corticosteroid, and the application of the steroid to thin areas of skin appear to increase the risk for atrophy.

Geriatric

Use systemic corticosteroids with caution in the geriatric patient; the risks and benefits of therapy should be considered for any individual patient. Reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between geriatric and younger adult patients. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious; start at the lower end of the dosing range due to potential decreased hepatic, renal, cardiac function, or concomitant disease in geriatric patients. Prolonged systemic corticosteroid therapy, such as hydrocortisone, can lead to osteoporosis, vertebral compression fractures, aseptic necrosis of femoral and humoral heads, and pathologic fractures of long bones secondary to protein catabolism. Use cautiously in elderly or postmenopausal patients because they are especially susceptible to these adverse effects. A high-protein diet may alleviate or prevent the adverse effects associated with protein catabolism. Additionally, topical corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone, should be used for brief periods, or under close medical supervision in patients with evidence of pre-existing skin atrophy. Elderly patients may be more likely to have preexisting skin atrophy secondary to aging. According to the Beers Criteria, systemic corticosteroids are considered potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) for use in geriatric patients with delirium or at high risk for delirium and should be avoided in these patient populations due to the possibility of new-onset delirium or exacerbation of the current condition. The Beers expert panel notes that oral and parenteral corticosteroids may be required for conditions such as exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) but should be prescribed in the lowest effective dose and for the shortest possible duration. The federal Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) regulates medication use in residents of long-term care facilities. According to the OBRA guidelines, the need for continued use of a glucocorticoid, with the exception of topical or inhaled formulations, should be documented, along with monitoring for and management of adverse consequences. Intermediate or longer-term use may cause hyperglycemia, psychosis, edema, insomnia, hypertension, osteoporosis, mood lability, or depression.

Epidural administration, intrathecal administration

Intrathecal administration of hydrocortisone sodium succinate injection is contraindicated. Severe medical events, including arachnoiditis, meningitis, paraparesis, paraplegia, and sensory disturbances, have been reported after intrathecal administration. Epidural lipomatosis has been reported with hydrocortisone sodium succinate injection. Epidural administration of corticosteroids should be used with great caution. Rare, but serious adverse reactions, including cortical blindness, stroke, spinal cord infarction, paralysis, seizures, nerve injury, brain edema, and death have been associated with epidural administration of injectable corticosteroids. These events have been reported with and without the use of fluoroscopy. Many cases were temporally associated with the corticosteroid injection; reactions occurred within minutes to 48 hours after injection. Some cases of neurologic events were confirmed through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scan. Many patients did not recover from the reported adverse effects. Discuss the benefits and risks of epidural corticosteroid injections with the patient before treatment. If a decision is made to proceed with corticosteroid epidural administration, counsel patients to seek emergency medical attention if they experience symptoms after injection such as vision changes, tingling in the arms or legs, dizziness, severe headache, seizures, or sudden weakness or numbness of face, arm, or leg.

Pheochromocytoma

Use hydrocortisone with caution in patients with diagnosed or suspected pheochromocytoma. Pheochromocytoma crisis, which can be fatal, has been reported after administration of systemic corticosteroids. Consider the risk of pheochromocytoma crisis prior to administering corticosteroids in any patients with suspected pheochromocytoma.

DRUG INTERACTIONS

Abatacept: (Moderate) Concomitant use of immunosuppressives, as well as long-term corticosteroids, may potentially increase the risk of serious infection in abatacept treated patients. Advise patients taking abatacept to seek immediate medical advice if they develop signs and symptoms suggestive of infection. Acetaminophen; Aspirin, ASA; Caffeine: (Moderate) Salicylates or NSAIDs should be used cautiously in patients receiving corticosteroids. While there is controversy regarding the ulcerogenic potential of corticosteroids alone, concomitant administration of corticosteroids with aspirin may increase the GI toxicity of aspirin and other non-acetylated salicylates. Withdrawal of corticosteroids can result in increased plasma concentrations of salicylate and possible toxicity. Concomitant use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of adverse GI events due to NSAIDs. Although some patients may need to be given corticosteroids and NSAIDs concomitantly, which can be done successfully for short periods of time without sequelae, prolonged coadministration should be avoided. Acetaminophen; Caffeine; Magnesium Salicylate; Phenyltoloxamine: (Moderate) Salicylates or NSAIDs should be used cautiously in patients receiving corticosteroids. While there is controversy regarding the ulcerogenic potential of corticosteroids alone, concomitant administration of corticosteroids with aspirin may increase the GI toxicity of aspirin and other non-acetylated salicylates. Withdrawal of corticosteroids can result in increased plasma concentrations of salicylate and possible toxicity. Concomitant use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of adverse GI events due to NSAIDs. Although some patients may need to be given corticosteroids and NSAIDs concomitantly, which can be done successfully for short periods of time without sequelae, prolonged coadministration should be avoided. Acetaminophen; Caffeine; Phenyltoloxamine; Salicylamide: (Moderate) Salicylates or NSAIDs should be used cautiously in patients receiving corticosteroids. While there is controversy regarding the ulcerogenic potential of corticosteroids alone, concomitant administration of corticosteroids with aspirin may increase the GI toxicity of aspirin and other non-acetylated salicylates. Withdrawal of corticosteroids can result in increased plasma concentrations of salicylate and possible toxicity. Concomitant use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of adverse GI events due to NSAIDs. Although some patients may need to be given corticosteroids and NSAIDs concomitantly, which can be done successfully for short periods of time without sequelae, prolonged coadministration should be avoided. Acetaminophen; Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Acetaminophen; Chlorpheniramine; Phenylephrine; Phenyltoloxamine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan; Guaifenesin; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Acetaminophen; Guaifenesin; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Acetazolamide: (Moderate) Corticosteroids may increase the risk of hypokalemia if used concurrently with acetazolamide. Hypokalemia may be especially severe with prolonged use of corticotropin, ACTH. Monitor serum potassium levels to determine the need for potassium supplementation and/or alteration in drug therapy. Acetohexamide: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Adalimumab: (Moderate) Closely monitor for the development of signs and symptoms of infection if coadministration of a corticosteroid with adalimumab is necessary. Adalimumab treatment increases the risk for serious infections that may lead to hospitalization or death. Patients taking concomitant immunosuppressants including corticosteroids may be at greater risk of infection. Albiglutide: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Aldesleukin, IL-2: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Alemtuzumab: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Aliskiren; Amlodipine; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Aliskiren; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Alogliptin; Metformin: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Alpha-glucosidase Inhibitors: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Altretamine: (Minor) Concurrent use of altretamine with other agents which cause bone marrow or immune suppression such as corticosteroids may result in additive effects. Ambenonium Chloride: (Minor) Corticosteroids may interact with cholinesterase inhibitors including ambenonium, neostigmine, and pyridostigmine, occasionally causing severe muscle weakness in patients with myasthenia gravis. Glucocorticoids are occasionally used therapeutically, however, in the treatment of some patients with myasthenia gravis. In such patients, it is recommended that corticosteroid therapy be initiated at low dosages and with close clinical monitoring. The dosage should be increased gradually as tolerated, with continued careful monitoring of the patient's clinical status. Amiloride; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Aminosalicylate sodium, Aminosalicylic acid: (Moderate) Salicylates or NSAIDs should be used cautiously in patients receiving corticosteroids. While there is controversy regarding the ulcerogenic potential of corticosteroids alone, concomitant administration of corticosteroids with aspirin may increase the GI toxicity of aspirin and other non-acetylated salicylates. Withdrawal of corticosteroids can result in increased plasma concentrations of salicylate and possible toxicity. Concomitant use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of adverse GI events due to NSAIDs. Although some patients may need to be given corticosteroids and NSAIDs concomitantly, which can be done successfully for short periods of time without sequelae, prolonged coadministration should be avoided. Amlodipine; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Olmesartan: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Amlodipine; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Valsartan: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Amoxicillin; Clarithromycin; Lansoprazole: (Moderate) Clarithromycin inhibits CYP3A4 and has the potential to result in increased plasma concentrations of corticosteroids. Therefore, the dose of corticosteroid should be titrated to avoid steroid toxicity. Amoxicillin; Clarithromycin; Omeprazole: (Moderate) Clarithromycin inhibits CYP3A4 and has the potential to result in increased plasma concentrations of corticosteroids. Therefore, the dose of corticosteroid should be titrated to avoid steroid toxicity. Amphotericin B cholesteryl sulfate complex (ABCD): (Moderate) The potassium-wasting effects of corticosteroid therapy can be exacerbated by concomitant administration of other potassium-depleting drugs including amphotericin B. Serum potassium levels should be monitored in patients receiving these drugs concomitantly. Amphotericin B lipid complex (ABLC): (Moderate) The potassium-wasting effects of corticosteroid therapy can be exacerbated by concomitant administration of other potassium-depleting drugs including amphotericin B. Serum potassium levels should be monitored in patients receiving these drugs concomitantly. Amphotericin B liposomal (LAmB): (Moderate) The potassium-wasting effects of corticosteroid therapy can be exacerbated by concomitant administration of other potassium-depleting drugs including amphotericin B. Serum potassium levels should be monitored in patients receiving these drugs concomitantly. Amphotericin B: (Moderate) The potassium-wasting effects of corticosteroid therapy can be exacerbated by concomitant administration of other potassium-depleting drugs including amphotericin B. Serum potassium levels should be monitored in patients receiving these drugs concomitantly. Anthracyclines: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Also, dexamethasone is a CYP3A4 inducer and doxorubicin is a major substrate of CYP3A4. However, these drugs are commonly used together in treatment Antithymocyte Globulin: (Moderate) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Antitumor antibiotics: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Argatroban: (Moderate) Concomitant use of systemic sodium chloride, especially at high doses, and corticosteroids may result in sodium and fluid retention. Assess sodium chloride intake from all sources, including intake from sodium-containing intravenous fluids and antibiotic admixtures. Carefully monitor sodium concentrations and fluid status if sodium-containing drugs and corticosteroids must be used together. Arsenic Trioxide: (Major) Because electrolyte abnormalities increase the risk of QT interval prolongation and serious arrhythmias, avoid the concomitant use of arsenic trioxide with drugs that may cause electrolyte abnormalities, particularly hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia. Examples of drugs that may cause electrolyte abnormalities include corticosteroids. If concomitant drug use is unavoidable, frequently monitor serum electrolytes (and replace as necessary) and electrocardiograms. Asparaginase Erwinia chrysanthemi: (Moderate) Concomitant use of L-asparaginase with corticosteroids can result in additive hyperglycemia. L-Asparaginase transiently inhibits insulin production contributing to hyperglycemia seen during concurrent corticosteroid therapy. Insulin therapy may be required in some cases. Administration of L-asparaginase after rather than before corticosteroids reportedly has produced fewer hypersensitivity reactions. Aspirin, ASA: (Moderate) Salicylates or NSAIDs should be used cautiously in patients receiving corticosteroids. While there is controversy regarding the ulcerogenic potential of corticosteroids alone, concomitant administration of corticosteroids with aspirin may increase the GI toxicity of aspirin and other non-acetylated salicylates. Withdrawal of corticosteroids can result in increased plasma concentrations of salicylate and possible toxicity. Concomitant use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of adverse GI events due to NSAIDs. Although some patients may need to be given corticosteroids and NSAIDs concomitantly, which can be done successfully for short periods of time without sequelae, prolonged coadministration should be avoided. Aspirin, ASA; Butalbital; Caffeine: (Moderate) Salicylates or NSAIDs should be used cautiously in patients receiving corticosteroids. While there is controversy regarding the ulcerogenic potential of corticosteroids alone, concomitant administration of corticosteroids with aspirin may increase the GI toxicity of aspirin and other non-acetylated salicylates. Withdrawal of corticosteroids can result in increased plasma concentrations of salicylate and possible toxicity. Concomitant use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of adverse GI events due to NSAIDs. Although some patients may need to be given corticosteroids and NSAIDs concomitantly, which can be done successfully for short periods of time without sequelae, prolonged coadministration should be avoided. Aspirin, ASA; Butalbital; Caffeine; Codeine: (Moderate) Salicylates or NSAIDs should be used cautiously in patients receiving corticosteroids. While there is controversy regarding the ulcerogenic potential of corticosteroids alone, concomitant administration of corticosteroids with aspirin may increase the GI toxicity of aspirin and other non-acetylated salicylates. Withdrawal of corticosteroids can result in increased plasma concentrations of salicylate and possible toxicity. Concomitant use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of adverse GI events due to NSAIDs. Although some patients may need to be given corticosteroids and NSAIDs concomitantly, which can be done successfully for short periods of time without sequelae, prolonged coadministration should be avoided. Aspirin, ASA; Caffeine; Dihydrocodeine: (Moderate) Salicylates or NSAIDs should be used cautiously in patients receiving corticosteroids. While there is controversy regarding the ulcerogenic potential of corticosteroids alone, concomitant administration of corticosteroids with aspirin may increase the GI toxicity of aspirin and other non-acetylated salicylates. Withdrawal of corticosteroids can result in increased plasma concentrations of salicylate and possible toxicity. Concomitant use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of adverse GI events due to NSAIDs. Although some patients may need to be given corticosteroids and NSAIDs concomitantly, which can be done successfully for short periods of time without sequelae, prolonged coadministration should be avoided. Aspirin, ASA; Carisoprodol: (Moderate) Salicylates or NSAIDs should be used cautiously in patients receiving corticosteroids. While there is controversy regarding the ulcerogenic potential of corticosteroids alone, concomitant administration of corticosteroids with aspirin may increase the GI toxicity of aspirin and other non-acetylated salicylates. Withdrawal of corticosteroids can result in increased plasma concentrations of salicylate and possible toxicity. Concomitant use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of adverse GI events due to NSAIDs. Although some patients may need to be given corticosteroids and NSAIDs concomitantly, which can be done successfully for short periods of time without sequelae, prolonged coadministration should be avoided. Aspirin, ASA; Carisoprodol; Codeine: (Moderate) Salicylates or NSAIDs should be used cautiously in patients receiving corticosteroids. While there is controversy regarding the ulcerogenic potential of corticosteroids alone, concomitant administration of corticosteroids with aspirin may increase the GI toxicity of aspirin and other non-acetylated salicylates. Withdrawal of corticosteroids can result in increased plasma concentrations of salicylate and possible toxicity. Concomitant use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of adverse GI events due to NSAIDs. Although some patients may need to be given corticosteroids and NSAIDs concomitantly, which can be done successfully for short periods of time without sequelae, prolonged coadministration should be avoided. Aspirin, ASA; Dipyridamole: (Moderate) Salicylates or NSAIDs should be used cautiously in patients receiving corticosteroids. While there is controversy regarding the ulcerogenic potential of corticosteroids alone, concomitant administration of corticosteroids with aspirin may increase the GI toxicity of aspirin and other non-acetylated salicylates. Withdrawal of corticosteroids can result in increased plasma concentrations of salicylate and possible toxicity. Concomitant use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of adverse GI events due to NSAIDs. Although some patients may need to be given corticosteroids and NSAIDs concomitantly, which can be done successfully for short periods of time without sequelae, prolonged coadministration should be avoided. Aspirin, ASA; Omeprazole: (Moderate) Salicylates or NSAIDs should be used cautiously in patients receiving corticosteroids. While there is controversy regarding the ulcerogenic potential of corticosteroids alone, concomitant administration of corticosteroids with aspirin may increase the GI toxicity of aspirin and other non-acetylated salicylates. Withdrawal of corticosteroids can result in increased plasma concentrations of salicylate and possible toxicity. Concomitant use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of adverse GI events due to NSAIDs. Although some patients may need to be given corticosteroids and NSAIDs concomitantly, which can be done successfully for short periods of time without sequelae, prolonged coadministration should be avoided. Aspirin, ASA; Oxycodone: (Moderate) Salicylates or NSAIDs should be used cautiously in patients receiving corticosteroids. While there is controversy regarding the ulcerogenic potential of corticosteroids alone, concomitant administration of corticosteroids with aspirin may increase the GI toxicity of aspirin and other non-acetylated salicylates. Withdrawal of corticosteroids can result in increased plasma concentrations of salicylate and possible toxicity. Concomitant use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of adverse GI events due to NSAIDs. Although some patients may need to be given corticosteroids and NSAIDs concomitantly, which can be done successfully for short periods of time without sequelae, prolonged coadministration should be avoided. Aspirin, ASA; Pravastatin: (Moderate) Salicylates or NSAIDs should be used cautiously in patients receiving corticosteroids. While there is controversy regarding the ulcerogenic potential of corticosteroids alone, concomitant administration of corticosteroids with aspirin may increase the GI toxicity of aspirin and other non-acetylated salicylates. Withdrawal of corticosteroids can result in increased plasma concentrations of salicylate and possible toxicity. Concomitant use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of adverse GI events due to NSAIDs. Although some patients may need to be given corticosteroids and NSAIDs concomitantly, which can be done successfully for short periods of time without sequelae, prolonged coadministration should be avoided. Atenolol; Chlorthalidone: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Atracurium: (Moderate) Caution and close monitoring are advised if corticosteroids and neuromuscular blockers are used together, particularly for long periods, due to enhanced neuromuscular blocking effects. In such patients, a peripheral nerve stimulator may be of value in monitoring the response. Concurrent use may increase the risk of acute myopathy. This acute myopathy is generalized, may involve ocular and respiratory muscles, and may result in quadriparesis. Elevation of creatine kinase may occur. Clinical improvement or recovery after stopping corticosteroids may require weeks to years. Atropine; Benzoic Acid; Hyoscyamine; Methenamine; Methylene Blue; Phenyl Salicylate: (Moderate) Salicylates or NSAIDs should be used cautiously in patients receiving corticosteroids. While there is controversy regarding the ulcerogenic potential of corticosteroids alone, concomitant administration of corticosteroids with aspirin may increase the GI toxicity of aspirin and other non-acetylated salicylates. Withdrawal of corticosteroids can result in increased plasma concentrations of salicylate and possible toxicity. Concomitant use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of adverse GI events due to NSAIDs. Although some patients may need to be given corticosteroids and NSAIDs concomitantly, which can be done successfully for short periods of time without sequelae, prolonged coadministration should be avoided. Azacitidine: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Azathioprine: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Azilsartan; Chlorthalidone: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Bacillus Calmette-Guerin Vaccine, BCG: (Severe) Live virus vaccines should generally not be administered to an immunosuppressed patient. Live virus vaccines may induce the illness they are intended to prevent and are generally contraindicated for use during immunosuppressive treatment. The immune response of the immunocompromised patient to vaccines may be decreased, even despite alternate vaccination schedules or more frequent booster doses. If immunization is necessary, choose an alternative to live vaccination, or, consider a delay or change in the immunization schedule. Practitioners should refer to the most recent CDC guidelines regarding vaccination of patients who are receiving drugs that adversely affect the immune system. Children who are receiving high doses of systemic corticosteroids (i.e., greater than or equal to 2 mg/kg prednisone orally per day) for 2 weeks or more may be vaccinated after steroid therapy has been discontinued for at least 3 months in accordance with general recommendations for the use of live-virus vaccines. The CDC has stated that discontinuation of steroids for 1 month prior to varicella virus vaccine live administration may be sufficient. Budesonide may affect the immunogenicity of live vaccines. An open-label study examined the immune responsiveness to varicella vaccine in 243 pediatric asthma patients who were treated with budesonide inhalation suspension 0.251 mg daily (n = 151) or non-corticosteroid asthma therapy (n = 92). The percentage of patients developing a seroprotective antibody titer of at least 5 (gpELISA value) in response to the vaccination was slightly lower in patients treated with budesonide compared to patients treated with non-corticosteroid asthma therapy (85% vs. 90%). Even though no patient treated with budesonide inhalation suspension developed chicken pox because of vaccination, live-virus vaccines should not be given to individuals who are considered to be immunocompromised until more information is available. Basiliximab: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids have immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives. Benazepril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Bendroflumethiazide; Nadolol: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Benzoic Acid; Hyoscyamine; Methenamine; Methylene Blue; Phenyl Salicylate: (Moderate) Salicylates or NSAIDs should be used cautiously in patients receiving corticosteroids. While there is controversy regarding the ulcerogenic potential of corticosteroids alone, concomitant administration of corticosteroids with aspirin may increase the GI toxicity of aspirin and other non-acetylated salicylates. Withdrawal of corticosteroids can result in increased plasma concentrations of salicylate and possible toxicity. Concomitant use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of adverse GI events due to NSAIDs. Although some patients may need to be given corticosteroids and NSAIDs concomitantly, which can be done successfully for short periods of time without sequelae, prolonged coadministration should be avoided. Bepridil: (Moderate) Hypokalemia-producing agents, including corticosteroids, may increase the risk of bepridil-induced arrhythmias and should therefore be administered cautiously in patients receiving bepridil therapy. Bevacizumab: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Bismuth Subsalicylate: (Moderate) Salicylates or NSAIDs should be used cautiously in patients receiving corticosteroids. While there is controversy regarding the ulcerogenic potential of corticosteroids alone, concomitant administration of corticosteroids with aspirin may increase the GI toxicity of aspirin and other non-acetylated salicylates. Withdrawal of corticosteroids can result in increased plasma concentrations of salicylate and possible toxicity. Concomitant use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of adverse GI events due to NSAIDs. Although some patients may need to be given corticosteroids and NSAIDs concomitantly, which can be done successfully for short periods of time without sequelae, prolonged coadministration should be avoided. Bismuth Subsalicylate; Metronidazole; Tetracycline: (Moderate) Salicylates or NSAIDs should be used cautiously in patients receiving corticosteroids. While there is controversy regarding the ulcerogenic potential of corticosteroids alone, concomitant administration of corticosteroids with aspirin may increase the GI toxicity of aspirin and other non-acetylated salicylates. Withdrawal of corticosteroids can result in increased plasma concentrations of salicylate and possible toxicity. Concomitant use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of adverse GI events due to NSAIDs. Although some patients may need to be given corticosteroids and NSAIDs concomitantly, which can be done successfully for short periods of time without sequelae, prolonged coadministration should be avoided. Bisoprolol; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Bortezomib: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Brompheniramine; Carbetapentane; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Bupropion: (Major) Bupropion is associated with a dose-related risk of seizures. Extreme caution is recommended during concurrent use of other drugs that may lower the seizure threshold such as systemic corticosteroids. The manufacturer recommends low initial dosing and slow dosage titration if these combinations must be used; the patient should be closely monitored. Bupropion; Naltrexone: (Major) Bupropion is associated with a dose-related risk of seizures. Extreme caution is recommended during concurrent use of other drugs that may lower the seizure threshold such as systemic corticosteroids. The manufacturer recommends low initial dosing and slow dosage titration if these combinations must be used; the patient should be closely monitored. Calcium Carbonate: (Moderate) Calcium absorption is reduced when calcium carbonate is taken concomitantly with systemic corticosteroids. Systemic corticosteroids induce a negative calcium balance by inhibiting intestinal calcium absorption as well as by increasing renal calcium losses. The mechanism by which these drugs inhibit calcium absorption in the intestine is likely to involve a direct inhibition of absorptive cell function. Calcium Carbonate; Magnesium Hydroxide: (Moderate) Calcium absorption is reduced when calcium carbonate is taken concomitantly with systemic corticosteroids. Systemic corticosteroids induce a negative calcium balance by inhibiting intestinal calcium absorption as well as by increasing renal calcium losses. The mechanism by which these drugs inhibit calcium absorption in the intestine is likely to involve a direct inhibition of absorptive cell function. Calcium Carbonate; Risedronate: (Moderate) Calcium absorption is reduced when calcium carbonate is taken concomitantly with systemic corticosteroids. Systemic corticosteroids induce a negative calcium balance by inhibiting intestinal calcium absorption as well as by increasing renal calcium losses. The mechanism by which these drugs inhibit calcium absorption in the intestine is likely to involve a direct inhibition of absorptive cell function. Calcium; Vitamin D: (Moderate) Calcium absorption is reduced when calcium carbonate is taken concomitantly with systemic corticosteroids. Systemic corticosteroids induce a negative calcium balance by inhibiting intestinal calcium absorption as well as by increasing renal calcium losses. The mechanism by which these drugs inhibit calcium absorption in the intestine is likely to involve a direct inhibition of absorptive cell function. Canagliflozin: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Canagliflozin; Metformin: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Candesartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Capecitabine: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Captopril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Carbetapentane; Chlorpheniramine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Carbetapentane; Diphenhydramine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Carbetapentane; Guaifenesin; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Carbetapentane; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Carbetapentane; Phenylephrine; Pyrilamine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Carbinoxamine; Hydrocodone; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Carbinoxamine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Carmustine, BCNU: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Chlophedianol; Guaifenesin; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Chlorambucil: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Chlorothiazide: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Chlorpheniramine; Dihydrocodeine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Chlorpheniramine; Hydrocodone; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Chlorpheniramine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Chlorpropamide: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Chlorthalidone: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Chlorthalidone; Clonidine: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Cholestyramine: (Moderate) Cholestyramine has been shown to bind to hydrocortisone. To minimize drug interactions, the manufacturer recommends to administer other drugs at least 1 hour before or at least 4 to 6 hours after the administration of cholestyramine. Choline Salicylate; Magnesium Salicylate: (Moderate) Salicylates or NSAIDs should be used cautiously in patients receiving corticosteroids. While there is controversy regarding the ulcerogenic potential of corticosteroids alone, concomitant administration of corticosteroids with aspirin may increase the GI toxicity of aspirin and other non-acetylated salicylates. Withdrawal of corticosteroids can result in increased plasma concentrations of salicylate and possible toxicity. Concomitant use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of adverse GI events due to NSAIDs. Although some patients may need to be given corticosteroids and NSAIDs concomitantly, which can be done successfully for short periods of time without sequelae, prolonged coadministration should be avoided. Cimetidine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of systemic sodium chloride, especially at high doses, and corticosteroids may result in sodium and fluid retention. Assess sodium chloride intake from all sources, including intake from sodium-containing intravenous fluids and antibiotic admixtures. Carefully monitor sodium concentrations and fluid status if sodium-containing drugs and corticosteroids must be used together. Cisatracurium: (Moderate) Caution and close monitoring are advised if corticosteroids and neuromuscular blockers are used together, particularly for long periods, due to enhanced neuromuscular blocking effects. In such patients, a peripheral nerve stimulator may be of value in monitoring the response. Concurrent use may increase the risk of acute myopathy. This acute myopathy is generalized, may involve ocular and respiratory muscles, and may result in quadriparesis. Elevation of creatine kinase may occur. Clinical improvement or recovery after stopping corticosteroids may require weeks to years. Citalopram: (Major) Citalopram causes dose-dependent QT interval prolongation. Concurrent use of citalopram and medications known to cause electrolyte imbalance may increase the risk of developing QT prolongation. Therefore, caution is advisable during concurrent use of citalopram and corticosteroids. It should be noted that CYP3A4 is one of the isoenzymes involved in the metabolism of citalopram, and dexamethasone is an inducer of this isoenzyme. In theory, decreased efficacy of citalopram is possible during combined use with dexamethasone; however, because citalopram is metabolized by multiple enzyme systems, induction of one pathway may not appreciably increase citalopram clearance. Clarithromycin: (Moderate) Clarithromycin inhibits CYP3A4 and has the potential to result in increased plasma concentrations of corticosteroids. Therefore, the dose of corticosteroid should be titrated to avoid steroid toxicity. Clindamycin: (Moderate) Concomitant use of systemic sodium chloride, especially at high doses, and corticosteroids may result in sodium and fluid retention. Assess sodium chloride intake from all sources, including intake from sodium-containing intravenous fluids and antibiotic admixtures. Carefully monitor sodium concentrations and fluid status if sodium-containing drugs and corticosteroids must be used together. Clofarabine: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Cod Liver Oil: (Minor) A relationship of functional antagonism exists between vitamin D analogs, which promote calcium absorption, and corticosteroids, which inhibit calcium absorption. Therapeutic effect of cod liver oil should be monitored when used concomitantly with corticosteroids. Codeine; Phenylephrine; Promethazine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Colestipol: (Moderate) The bile-acid sequestrant colestipol is well-known to cause drug interactions by binding and decreasing the oral administration of many drugs. Colestipol can bind with and possibly decrease the oral absorption of hydrocortisone. According to the manufacturer, administer other drugs at least 1 hour before or at least 4 to 6 hours after the administration of colestipol. Conivaptan: (Moderate) Conivaptan has been associated with hypokalemia (9.8%). Although not studied, consider the potential for additive hypokalemic effects if conivaptan is coadministered with drugs known to induce hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Cosyntropin: (Major) Patients receiving hydrocortisone should omit their pre-test doses on the day selected for testing. Patients taking inadvertent doses of hydrocortisone may exhibit abnormally high basal plasma cortisol concentrations and a decreased response to the test. A paradoxical decrease in plasma cortisol concentrations may be seen in patients receiving hydrocortisone following a stimulating dose of cosyntropin injection. Cytarabine, ARA-C: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Dapagliflozin: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Dapagliflozin; Metformin: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Dapagliflozin; Saxagliptin: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Decitabine: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Denileukin Diftitox: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Denosumab: (Moderate) The safety and efficacy of denosumab use in patients with immunosuppression have not been evaluated. Patients receiving immunosuppressives along with denosumab may be at a greater risk of developing an infection. Desmopressin: (Major) Desmopressin, when used in the treatment of nocturia is contraindicated with corticosteroids because of the risk of severe hyponatremia. Desmopressin can be started or resumed 3 days or 5 half-lives after the corticosteroid is discontinued, whichever is longer. Dextran: (Moderate) Concomitant use of systemic sodium chloride, especially at high doses, and corticosteroids may result in sodium and fluid retention. Assess sodium chloride intake from all sources, including intake from sodium-containing intravenous fluids and antibiotic admixtures. Carefully monitor sodium concentrations and fluid status if sodium-containing drugs and corticosteroids must be used together. Dextromethorphan; Diphenhydramine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Dextromethorphan; Guaifenesin; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Digoxin: (Moderate) Hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, or hypercalcemia increase digoxin's effect. Corticosteroids can precipitate digoxin toxicity via their effect on electrolyte balance. It is recommended that serum potassium, magnesium, and calcium be monitored regularly in patients receiving digoxin. Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 Inhibitors: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Diphenhydramine; Hydrocodone; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Diphenhydramine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Dofetilide: (Major) Corticosteroids can cause increases in blood pressure, sodium and water retention, and hypokalemia, predisposing patients to interactions with certain other medications. Corticosteroid-induced hypokalemia could also enhance the proarrhythmic effects of dofetilide. Doxacurium: (Moderate) Caution and close monitoring are advised if corticosteroids and neuromuscular blockers are used together, particularly for long periods, due to enhanced neuromuscular blocking effects. In such patients, a peripheral nerve stimulator may be of value in monitoring the response. Concurrent use may increase the risk of acute myopathy. This acute myopathy is generalized, may involve ocular and respiratory muscles, and may result in quadriparesis. Elevation of creatine kinase may occur. Clinical improvement or recovery after stopping corticosteroids may require weeks to years. Droperidol: (Moderate) Caution is advised when using droperidol in combination with corticosteroids which may lead to electrolyte abnormalities, especially hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia, as such abnormalities may increase the risk for QT prolongation or cardiac arrhythmias. Dulaglutide: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Echinacea: (Moderate) Echinacea possesses immunostimulatory activity and may theoretically reduce the response to immunosuppressant drugs like corticosteroids. For some patients who are using corticosteroids for serious illness, such as cancer or organ transplant, this potential interaction may result in the preferable avoidance of Echinacea. Although documentation is lacking, coadministration of echinacea with immunosuppressants is not recommended by some resources. Econazole: (Minor) In vitro studies indicate that corticosteroids inhibit the antifungal activity of econazole against C. albicans in a concentration-dependent manner. When the concentration of the corticosteroid was equal to or greater than that of econazole on a weight basis, the antifungal activity of econazole was substantially inhibited. When the corticosteroid concentration was one-tenth that of econazole, no inhibition of antifungal activity was observed. Efalizumab: (Major) Patients receiving immunosuppressives should not receive concurrent therapy with efalizumab because of the possibility of increased infections and malignancies. Empagliflozin: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Empagliflozin; Linagliptin: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Empagliflozin; Metformin: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Enalapril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Ephedrine: (Moderate) Ephedrine may enhance the metabolic clearance of corticosteroids. Decreased blood concentrations and lessened physiologic activity may necessitate an increase in corticosteroid dosage. Eprosartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Ertugliflozin: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Ertugliflozin; Metformin: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Ertugliflozin; Sitagliptin: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Erythromycin: (Moderate) Erythromycin inhibits CYP3A4 and has the potential to result in increased plasma concentrations of corticosteroids. Therefore, the dose of corticosteroid should be titrated to avoid steroid toxicity. Erythromycin; Sulfisoxazole: (Moderate) Erythromycin inhibits CYP3A4 and has the potential to result in increased plasma concentrations of corticosteroids. Therefore, the dose of corticosteroid should be titrated to avoid steroid toxicity. Eslicarbazepine: (Moderate) In vivo studies suggest eslicarbazepine is an inducer of CYP3A4. Hydrocodone is metabolized by CYP3A4. Coadministration may cause increased clearance of hydrocodone, which could result in lack of efficacy or the development of an abstinence syndrome in a patient who had developed physical dependence to hydrocodone. Monitor the patient for reduced efficacy of hydrocodone. A higher hydrocodone dose may be needed if used with eslicarbazepine. Estramustine: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Estrogens: (Moderate) Estrogens have been associated with elevated serum concentrations of corticosteroid binding globulin (CBG), leading to increased total circulating corticosteroids, although the free concentrations of these hormones may be lower; the clinical significance is not known. Estrogens are CYP3A4 substrates and dexamethasone is a CYP3A4 inducer; concomitant use may decrease the clinical efficacy of estrogens. Patients should be monitored for signs of decreased clinical effects of estrogens (e.g., breakthrough bleeding), oral contraceptives, or non-oral combination contraceptives if these drugs are used together. Exenatide: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Floxuridine: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Fluconazole: (Moderate) Concomitant use of systemic sodium chloride, especially at high doses, and corticosteroids may result in sodium and fluid retention. Assess sodium chloride intake from all sources, including intake from sodium-containing intravenous fluids and antibiotic admixtures. Carefully monitor sodium concentrations and fluid status if sodium-containing drugs and corticosteroids must be used together. Fluorouracil, 5-FU: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Fluoxymesterone: (Moderate) Coadministration of corticosteroids and fluoxymesterone may increase the risk of edema, especially in patients with underlying cardiac or hepatic disease. Corticosteroids with greater mineralocorticoid activity, such as fludrocortisone, may be more likely to cause edema. Administer these drugs in combination with caution. Fosinopril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Gallium Ga 68 Dotatate: (Moderate) Corticosteroids may accentuate the electrolyte loss associated with diuretic therapy resulting in hypokalemia. Also, corticotropin may cause calcium loss and sodium and fluid retention. Mannitol itself can cause hypernatremia. Close monitoring of electrolytes should occur in patients receiving these drugs concomitantly. Gemcitabine: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Gentamicin: (Moderate) Concomitant use of systemic sodium chloride, especially at high doses, and corticosteroids may result in sodium and fluid retention. Assess sodium chloride intake from all sources, including intake from sodium-containing intravenous fluids and antibiotic admixtures. Carefully monitor sodium concentrations and fluid status if sodium-containing drugs and corticosteroids must be used together. Glimepiride: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Glimepiride; Pioglitazone: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Glimepiride; Rosiglitazone: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Glipizide: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Glipizide; Metformin: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Glyburide: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Glyburide; Metformin: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Glycerol Phenylbutyrate: (Moderate) Corticosteroids may induce elevated blood ammonia concentrations. Corticosteroids should be used with caution in patients receiving glycerol phenylbutyrate. Monitor ammonia concentrations closely. Guaifenesin; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Halofantrine: (Major) Due to the risks of cardiac toxicity of halofantrine in patients with hypokalemia and/or hypomagnesemia, the use of halofantrine should be avoided in combination with agents that may lead to electrolyte losses, such as corticosteroids. Haloperidol: (Major) QT prolongation has been observed during haloperidol treatment. Use of haloperidol and medications known to cause electrolyte imbalance may increase the risk of QT prolongation. Therefore, caution is advisable during concurrent use of haloperidol and corticosteroids. Topical corticosteroids are less likely to interact. Hemin: (Moderate) Hemin works by inhibiting aminolevulinic acid synthetase. Corticosteroids increase the activity of this enzyme should not be used with hemin. Heparin: (Moderate) Concomitant use of systemic sodium chloride, especially at high doses, and corticosteroids may result in sodium and fluid retention. Assess sodium chloride intake from all sources, including intake from sodium-containing intravenous fluids and antibiotic admixtures. Carefully monitor sodium concentrations and fluid status if sodium-containing drugs and corticosteroids must be used together. Hetastarch: (Moderate) Concomitant use of systemic sodium chloride, especially at high doses, and corticosteroids may result in sodium and fluid retention. Assess sodium chloride intake from all sources, including intake from sodium-containing intravenous fluids and antibiotic admixtures. Carefully monitor sodium concentrations and fluid status if sodium-containing drugs and corticosteroids must be used together. Hydralazine; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Irbesartan: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Lisinopril: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Losartan: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Methyldopa: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Metoprolol: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Moexipril: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Olmesartan: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Propranolol: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. (Moderate) Patients receiving corticosteroids during propranolol therapy may be at increased risk of hypoglycemia due to the loss of counter-regulatory cortisol response. This effect may be more pronounced in infants and young children. If concurrent use is necessary, carefully monitor vital signs and blood glucose concentrations as clinically indicated. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Quinapril: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Spironolactone: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Telmisartan: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Triamterene: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Valsartan: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Hydrocodone; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Hydroxyurea: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Hylan G-F 20: (Major) The safety and efficacy of hylan G-F 20 given concomitantly with other intra-articular injectables have not been established. Other intra-articular injections may include intra-articular steroids (betamethasone, dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, prednisolone, methylprednisolone, and triamcinolone). Hyoscyamine; Methenamine; Methylene Blue; Phenyl Salicylate; Sodium Biphosphate: (Moderate) Salicylates or NSAIDs should be used cautiously in patients receiving corticosteroids. While there is controversy regarding the ulcerogenic potential of corticosteroids alone, concomitant administration of corticosteroids with aspirin may increase the GI toxicity of aspirin and other non-acetylated salicylates. Withdrawal of corticosteroids can result in increased plasma concentrations of salicylate and possible toxicity. Concomitant use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of adverse GI events due to NSAIDs. Although some patients may need to be given corticosteroids and NSAIDs concomitantly, which can be done successfully for short periods of time without sequelae, prolonged coadministration should be avoided. (Moderate) Use sodium phosphate cautiously with corticosteroids, especially mineralocorticoids or corticotropin, ACTH, as concurrent use can cause hypernatremia. Ibritumomab Tiuxetan: (Moderate) Concomitant use of systemic sodium chloride, especially at high doses, and corticosteroids may result in sodium and fluid retention. Assess sodium chloride intake from all sources, including intake from sodium-containing intravenous fluids and antibiotic admixtures. Carefully monitor sodium concentrations and fluid status if sodium-containing drugs and corticosteroids must be used together. (Moderate) Use sodium phosphate cautiously with corticosteroids, especially mineralocorticoids or corticotropin, ACTH, as concurrent use can cause hypernatremia. (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Ifosfamide: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Incretin Mimetics: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Indapamide: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when indapamide is coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia such as systemic corticosteroids. Coadminister with caution and careful monitoring. Insulin Degludec; Liraglutide: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Insulin Glargine; Lixisenatide: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Insulins: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving insulin closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Interferon Alfa-2a: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Interferon Alfa-2b: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Interferon Alfa-2b; Ribavirin: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Intranasal Influenza Vaccine: (Severe) Live virus vaccines should generally not be administered to an immunosuppressed patient. Live virus vaccines may induce the illness they are intended to prevent and are generally contraindicated for use during immunosuppressive treatment. The immune response of the immunocompromised patient to vaccines may be decreased, even despite alternate vaccination schedules or more frequent booster doses. If immunization is necessary, choose an alternative to live vaccination, or, consider a delay or change in the immunization schedule. Practitioners should refer to the most recent CDC guidelines regarding vaccination of patients who are receiving drugs that adversely affect the immune system. Children who are receiving high doses of systemic corticosteroids (i.e., greater than or equal to 2 mg/kg prednisone orally per day) for 2 weeks or more may be vaccinated after steroid therapy has been discontinued for at least 3 months in accordance with general recommendations for the use of live-virus vaccines. The CDC has stated that discontinuation of steroids for 1 month prior to varicella virus vaccine live administration may be sufficient. Budesonide may affect the immunogenicity of live vaccines. An open-label study examined the immune responsiveness to varicella vaccine in 243 pediatric asthma patients who were treated with budesonide inhalation suspension 0.251 mg daily (n = 151) or non-corticosteroid asthma therapy (n = 92). The percentage of patients developing a seroprotective antibody titer of at least 5 (gpELISA value) in response to the vaccination was slightly lower in patients treated with budesonide compared to patients treated with non-corticosteroid asthma therapy (85% vs. 90%). Even though no patient treated with budesonide inhalation suspension developed chicken pox because of vaccination, live-virus vaccines should not be given to individuals who are considered to be immunocompromised until more information is available. Iohexol: (Major) Serious adverse events, including death, have been observed during intrathecal administration of both corticosteroids (i.e., hydrocortisone) and radiopaque contrast agents (i.e., iohexol); therefore, concurrent use of these medications via the intrathecal route is contraindicated. Cases of cortical blindness, stroke, spinal cord infarction, paralysis, seizures, nerve injury, brain edema, and death have been temporally associated (i.e., within minutes to 48 hours after injection) with epidural administration of injectable corticosteroids. In addition, patients inadvertently administered iohexol formulations not indicated for intrathecal use have experienced seizures, convulsions, cerebral hemorrhages, brain edema, and death. Administering these medications together via the intrathecal route may increase the risk for serious adverse events. Iopamidol: (Severe) Because both intrathecal corticosteroids (i.e., hydrocortisone) and intrathecal radiopaque contrast agents (i.e., iopamidoll) can increase the risk of seizures, the intrathecal administration of corticosteroids with intrathecal radiopaque contrast agents is contraindicated. Isoproterenol: (Moderate) The risk of cardiac toxicity with isoproterenol in asthma patients appears to be increased with the coadministration of corticosteroids. Intravenous infusions of isoproterenol in refractory asthmatic children at rates of 0.05 to 2.7 mcg/kg/min have caused clinical deterioration, myocardial infarction (necrosis), congestive heart failure and death. Isotretinoin: (Minor) Both isotretinoin and corticosteroids can cause osteoporosis during chronic use. Patients receiving systemic corticosteroids should receive isotretinoin therapy with caution. L-Asparaginase Escherichia coli: (Moderate) Concomitant use of L-asparaginase with corticosteroids can result in additive hyperglycemia. L-Asparaginase transiently inhibits insulin production contributing to hyperglycemia seen during concurrent corticosteroid therapy. Insulin therapy may be required in some cases. Administration of L-asparaginase after rather than before corticosteroids reportedly has produced fewer hypersensitivity reactions. Levetiracetam: (Moderate) Concomitant use of systemic sodium chloride, especially at high doses, and corticosteroids may result in sodium and fluid retention. Assess sodium chloride intake from all sources, including intake from sodium-containing intravenous fluids and antibiotic admixtures. Carefully monitor sodium concentrations and fluid status if sodium-containing drugs and corticosteroids must be used together. Levomethadyl: (Major) Caution is advised when using levomethadyl in combination with other agents, such as corticosteroids, that may lead to electrolyte abnormalities, especially hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia. Linagliptin; Metformin: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Liraglutide: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Lisdexamfetamine: (Minor) The amphetamines may interfere with laboratory tests for the determination of corticosteroids. Plasma cortisol concentrations may be increased, especially during evening hours. Amphetamines may also interfere with urinary steroid determinations. Live Vaccines: (Severe) Live virus vaccines should generally not be administered to an immunosuppressed patient. Live virus vaccines may induce the illness they are intended to prevent and are generally contraindicated for use during immunosuppressive treatment. The immune response of the immunocompromised patient to vaccines may be decreased, even despite alternate vaccination schedules or more frequent booster doses. If immunization is necessary, choose an alternative to live vaccination, or, consider a delay or change in the immunization schedule. Practitioners should refer to the most recent CDC guidelines regarding vaccination of patients who are receiving drugs that adversely affect the immune system. Children who are receiving high doses of systemic corticosteroids (i.e., greater than or equal to 2 mg/kg prednisone orally per day) for 2 weeks or more may be vaccinated after steroid therapy has been discontinued for at least 3 months in accordance with general recommendations for the use of live-virus vaccines. The CDC has stated that discontinuation of steroids for 1 month prior to varicella virus vaccine live administration may be sufficient. Budesonide may affect the immunogenicity of live vaccines. An open-label study examined the immune responsiveness to varicella vaccine in 243 pediatric asthma patients who were treated with budesonide inhalation suspension 0.251 mg daily (n = 151) or non-corticosteroid asthma therapy (n = 92). The percentage of patients developing a seroprotective antibody titer of at least 5 (gpELISA value) in response to the vaccination was slightly lower in patients treated with budesonide compared to patients treated with non-corticosteroid asthma therapy (85% vs. 90%). Even though no patient treated with budesonide inhalation suspension developed chicken pox because of vaccination, live-virus vaccines should not be given to individuals who are considered to be immunocompromised until more information is available. Lixisenatide: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Lomustine, CCNU: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Loop diuretics: (Moderate) Corticosteroids may accentuate the electrolyte loss associated with diuretic therapy resulting in hypokalemia and/or hypomagnesemia. While glucocorticoids with mineralocorticoid activity (e.g., cortisone, hydrocortisone) can cause sodium and fluid retention. Close monitoring of electrolytes should occur in patients receiving these drugs concomitantly. Magnesium Salicylate: (Moderate) Salicylates or NSAIDs should be used cautiously in patients receiving corticosteroids. While there is controversy regarding the ulcerogenic potential of corticosteroids alone, concomitant administration of corticosteroids with aspirin may increase the GI toxicity of aspirin and other non-acetylated salicylates. Withdrawal of corticosteroids can result in increased plasma concentrations of salicylate and possible toxicity. Concomitant use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of adverse GI events due to NSAIDs. Although some patients may need to be given corticosteroids and NSAIDs concomitantly, which can be done successfully for short periods of time without sequelae, prolonged coadministration should be avoided. Mannitol: (Moderate) Corticosteroids may accentuate the electrolyte loss associated with diuretic therapy resulting in hypokalemia. Also, corticotropin may cause calcium loss and sodium and fluid retention. Mannitol itself can cause hypernatremia. Close monitoring of electrolytes should occur in patients receiving these drugs concomitantly. Measles Virus; Mumps Virus; Rubella Virus; Varicella Virus Vaccine, Live: (Severe) Live virus vaccines should generally not be administered to an immunosuppressed patient. Live virus vaccines may induce the illness they are intended to prevent and are generally contraindicated for use during immunosuppressive treatment. The immune response of the immunocompromised patient to vaccines may be decreased, even despite alternate vaccination schedules or more frequent booster doses. If immunization is necessary, choose an alternative to live vaccination, or, consider a delay or change in the immunization schedule. Practitioners should refer to the most recent CDC guidelines regarding vaccination of patients who are receiving drugs that adversely affect the immune system. Children who are receiving high doses of systemic corticosteroids (i.e., greater than or equal to 2 mg/kg prednisone orally per day) for 2 weeks or more may be vaccinated after steroid therapy has been discontinued for at least 3 months in accordance with general recommendations for the use of live-virus vaccines. The CDC has stated that discontinuation of steroids for 1 month prior to varicella virus vaccine live administration may be sufficient. Budesonide may affect the immunogenicity of live vaccines. An open-label study examined the immune responsiveness to varicella vaccine in 243 pediatric asthma patients who were treated with budesonide inhalation suspension 0.251 mg daily (n = 151) or non-corticosteroid asthma therapy (n = 92). The percentage of patients developing a seroprotective antibody titer of at least 5 (gpELISA value) in response to the vaccination was slightly lower in patients treated with budesonide compared to patients treated with non-corticosteroid asthma therapy (85% vs. 90%). Even though no patient treated with budesonide inhalation suspension developed chicken pox because of vaccination, live-virus vaccines should not be given to individuals who are considered to be immunocompromised until more information is available. Measles/Mumps/Rubella Vaccines, MMR: (Severe) Live virus vaccines should generally not be administered to an immunosuppressed patient. Live virus vaccines may induce the illness they are intended to prevent and are generally contraindicated for use during immunosuppressive treatment. The immune response of the immunocompromised patient to vaccines may be decreased, even despite alternate vaccination schedules or more frequent booster doses. If immunization is necessary, choose an alternative to live vaccination, or, consider a delay or change in the immunization schedule. Practitioners should refer to the most recent CDC guidelines regarding vaccination of patients who are receiving drugs that adversely affect the immune system. Children who are receiving high doses of systemic corticosteroids (i.e., greater than or equal to 2 mg/kg prednisone orally per day) for 2 weeks or more may be vaccinated after steroid therapy has been discontinued for at least 3 months in accordance with general recommendations for the use of live-virus vaccines. The CDC has stated that discontinuation of steroids for 1 month prior to varicella virus vaccine live administration may be sufficient. Budesonide may affect the immunogenicity of live vaccines. An open-label study examined the immune responsiveness to varicella vaccine in 243 pediatric asthma patients who were treated with budesonide inhalation suspension 0.251 mg daily (n = 151) or non-corticosteroid asthma therapy (n = 92). The percentage of patients developing a seroprotective antibody titer of at least 5 (gpELISA value) in response to the vaccination was slightly lower in patients treated with budesonide compared to patients treated with non-corticosteroid asthma therapy (85% vs. 90%). Even though no patient treated with budesonide inhalation suspension developed chicken pox because of vaccination, live-virus vaccines should not be given to individuals who are considered to be immunocompromised until more information is available. Mecasermin rinfabate: (Moderate) Additional monitoring may be required when coadministering systemic or inhaled corticosteroids and mecasermin, recombinant, rh-IGF-1. In animal studies, corticosteroids impair the growth-stimulating effects of growth hormone (GH) through interference with the physiological stimulation of epiphyseal chondrocyte proliferation exerted by GH and IGF-1. Dexamethasone administration on long bone tissue in vitro resulted in a decrease of local synthesis of IGF-1. Similar counteractive effects are expected in humans. If systemic or inhaled glucocorticoid therapy is required, the steroid dose should be carefully adjusted and growth rate monitored. Mecasermin, Recombinant, rh-IGF-1: (Moderate) Additional monitoring may be required when coadministering systemic or inhaled corticosteroids and mecasermin, recombinant, rh-IGF-1. In animal studies, corticosteroids impair the growth-stimulating effects of growth hormone (GH) through interference with the physiological stimulation of epiphyseal chondrocyte proliferation exerted by GH and IGF-1. Dexamethasone administration on long bone tissue in vitro resulted in a decrease of local synthesis of IGF-1. Similar counteractive effects are expected in humans. If systemic or inhaled glucocorticoid therapy is required, the steroid dose should be carefully adjusted and growth rate monitored. Meglitinides: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Melphalan: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Mepenzolate: (Minor) Anticholinergics, such as mepenzolate, antagonize the effects of antiglaucoma agents. Mepenzolate is contraindicated in patients with glaucoma and therefore should not be coadministered with medications being prescribed for the treatment of glaucoma. In addition, anticholinergic drugs taken concurrently with corticosteroids in the presence of increased intraocular pressure may be hazardous. Metformin: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Metformin; Pioglitazone: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Metformin; Repaglinide: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Metformin; Rosiglitazone: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Metformin; Saxagliptin: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Metformin; Sitagliptin: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Methazolamide: (Moderate) Corticosteroids may increase the risk of hypokalemia if used concurrently with methazolamide. Hypokalemia may be especially severe with prolonged use of corticotropin, ACTH. Monitor serum potassium levels to determine the need for potassium supplementation and/or alteration in drug therapy. The chronic use of corticosteroids may augment calcium excretion with methazolamide leading to increased risk for hypocalcemia and/or osteoporosis. Methenamine; Sodium Acid Phosphate: (Moderate) Use sodium phosphate cautiously with corticosteroids, especially mineralocorticoids or corticotropin, ACTH, as concurrent use can cause hypernatremia. Methenamine; Sodium Acid Phosphate; Methylene Blue; Hyoscyamine: (Moderate) Use sodium phosphate cautiously with corticosteroids, especially mineralocorticoids or corticotropin, ACTH, as concurrent use can cause hypernatremia. Methoxsalen: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Methyclothiazide: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Metolazone: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Metyrapone: (Severe) Medications which affect pituitary or adrenocortical function, including all corticosteroid therapy, should be discontinued prior to and during testing with metyrapone. Patients taking inadvertent doses of corticosteroids on the test day may exhibit abnormally high basal plasma cortisol levels and a decreased response to the test. Although systemic absorption of topical corticosteroids is minimal, temporary discontinuation of these products should be considered if possible to reduce the potential for interference with the test results. Micafungin: (Moderate) Leukopenia, neutropenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia have been associated with micafungin. Patients who are taking immunosuppressives such as the corticosteroids with micafungin concomitantly may have additive risks for infection or other side effects. In a pharmacokinetic trial, micafungin had no effect on the pharmacokinetics of prednisolone. Acute intravascular hemolysis and hemoglobinuria was seen in a healthy volunteer during infusion of micafungin (200 mg) and oral prednisolone (20 mg). This reaction was transient, and the subject did not develop significant anemia. Mitotane: (Major) Because of increased glucocorticoid clearance, a higher dose of hydrocortisone (50 mg/day or more) may be needed for the treatment of adrenal insufficiency in patients treated with mitotane; some may require additional fludrocortisone. Mitoxantrone: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Mivacurium: (Moderate) Caution and close monitoring are advised if corticosteroids and neuromuscular blockers are used together, particularly for long periods, due to enhanced neuromuscular blocking effects. In such patients, a peripheral nerve stimulator may be of value in monitoring the response. Concurrent use may increase the risk of acute myopathy. This acute myopathy is generalized, may involve ocular and respiratory muscles, and may result in quadriparesis. Elevation of creatine kinase may occur. Clinical improvement or recovery after stopping corticosteroids may require weeks to years. Moxifloxacin: (Moderate) Concomitant use of systemic sodium chloride, especially at high doses, and corticosteroids may result in sodium and fluid retention. Assess sodium chloride intake from all sources, including intake from sodium-containing intravenous fluids and antibiotic admixtures. Carefully monitor sodium concentrations and fluid status if sodium-containing drugs and corticosteroids must be used together. Muromonab-CD3: (Major) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. While therapy is designed to take advantage of this effect, patients may be predisposed to over-immunosuppression resulting in an increased risk for the development of severe infections. Close clinical monitoring is advised with concurrent use; in the presence of serious infections, continuation of the corticosteroid or immunosuppressive agent may be necessary but should be accompanied by appropriate antimicrobial therapies as indicated. Natalizumab: (Major) Ordinarily, patients receiving chronic immunosuppressant therapy should not be treated with natalizumab. Treatment recommendations for combined corticosteroid therapy are dependent on the underlying indication for natalizumab therapy. Corticosteroids should be tapered in those patients with Crohn's disease who are on chronic corticosteroids when they start natalizumab therapy, as soon as a therapeutic benefit has occurred. If the patient cannot discontinue systemic corticosteroids within 6 months, discontinue natalizumab. The concomitant use of natalizumab and corticosteroids may further increase the risk of serious infections, including progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, over the risk observed with use of natalizumab alone. In multiple sclerosis (MS) clinical trials, an increase in infections was seen in patients concurrently receiving short courses of corticosteroids. However, the increase in infections in natalizumab-treated patients who received steroids was similar to the increase in placebo-treated patients who received steroids. Short courses of steroid use during natalizumab, such as when they are needed for MS relapse treatment, appear to be acceptable for use concurrently. Nateglinide: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Nelarabine: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Neostigmine: (Minor) Corticosteroids may interact with cholinesterase inhibitors including ambenonium, neostigmine, and pyridostigmine, occasionally causing severe muscle weakness in patients with myasthenia gravis. Glucocorticoids are occasionally used therapeutically, however, in the treatment of some patients with myasthenia gravis. In such patients, it is recommended that corticosteroid therapy be initiated at low dosages and with close clinical monitoring. The dosage should be increased gradually as tolerated, with continued careful monitoring of the patient's clinical status. Neuromuscular blockers: (Moderate) Caution and close monitoring are advised if corticosteroids and neuromuscular blockers are used together, particularly for long periods, due to enhanced neuromuscular blocking effects. In such patients, a peripheral nerve stimulator may be of value in monitoring the response. Concurrent use may increase the risk of acute myopathy. This acute myopathy is generalized, may involve ocular and respiratory muscles, and may result in quadriparesis. Elevation of creatine kinase may occur. Clinical improvement or recovery after stopping corticosteroids may require weeks to years. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs: (Moderate) Although some patients may need to be given corticosteroids and NSAIDs concomitantly, which can be done successfully for short periods of time without sequelae, prolonged concomitant administration should be avoided. Concomitant use of corticosteroids appears to increase the risk of adverse GI events due to NSAIDs. Corticosteroids can have profound effects on sodium-potassium balance; NSAIDs also can affect sodium and fluid balance. Monitor serum potassium concentrations; potassium supplementation may be necessary. In addition, NSAIDs may mask fever, pain, swelling and other signs and symptoms of an infection; use NSAIDs with caution in patients receiving immunosuppressant dosages of corticosteroids. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection. Ocrelizumab: (Moderate) Ocrelizumab has not been studied in combination with other immunosuppressive or immune modulating therapies used for the treatment of multiple sclerosis, including immunosuppressant doses of corticosteroids. Concomitant use of ocrelizumab with any of these therapies may increase the risk of immunosuppression. Monitor patients carefully for signs and symptoms of infection. Ondansetron: (Moderate) Concomitant use of systemic sodium chloride, especially at high doses, and corticosteroids may result in sodium and fluid retention. Assess sodium chloride intake from all sources, including intake from sodium-containing intravenous fluids and antibiotic admixtures. Carefully monitor sodium concentrations and fluid status if sodium-containing drugs and corticosteroids must be used together. Oxymetholone: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymetholone with corticosteroids or corticotropin, ACTH may cause increased edema. Manage edema with diuretic and/or digitalis therapy. Pancuronium: (Moderate) Caution and close monitoring are advised if corticosteroids and neuromuscular blockers are used together, particularly for long periods, due to enhanced neuromuscular blocking effects. In such patients, a peripheral nerve stimulator may be of value in monitoring the response. Concurrent use may increase the risk of acute myopathy. This acute myopathy is generalized, may involve ocular and respiratory muscles, and may result in quadriparesis. Elevation of creatine kinase may occur. Clinical improvement or recovery after stopping corticosteroids may require weeks to years. Pegaspargase: (Moderate) Concomitant use of pegaspargase with corticosteroids can result in additive hyperglycemia. Insulin therapy may be required in some cases. Penicillamine: (Major) Agents such as immunosuppressives have adverse reactions similar to those of penicillamine. Concomitant use of penicillamine with these agents is contraindicated because of the increased risk of developing severe hematologic and renal toxicity. Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Phenylephrine; Promethazine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly. Phosphorus Salts: (Moderate) Use sodium phosphate cautiously with corticosteroids, especially mineralocorticoids or corticotropin, ACTH, as concurrent use can cause hypernatremia. Photosensitizing agents: (Minor) Corticosteroids administered systemically prior to or concomitantly with photosensitizing agents may decrease the efficacy of photodynamic therapy. Physostigmine: (Minor) Corticosteroids may interact with cholinesterase inhibitors, occasionally causing severe muscle weakness in patients with myasthenia gravis. Glucocorticoids are occasionally used therapeutically, however, in the treatment of some patients with myasthenia gravis. In such patients, it is recommended that corticosteroid therapy be initiated at low dosages and with close clinical monitoring. The dosage should be increased gradually as tolerated, with continued careful monitoring of the patient's clinical status. Pimozide: (Moderate) According to the manufacturer of pimozide, the drug should not be coadministered with drugs known to cause electrolyte imbalances, such as high-dose, systemic corticosteroid therapy. Pimozide is associated with a well-established risk of QT prolongation and torsade de pointes (TdP), and electrolyte imbalances (e.g., hypokalemia, hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia) may increase the risk of life-threatening arrhythmias. Pimozide is contraindicated in patients with known hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia. Topical corticosteroids are less likely to interact. Potassium Phosphate; Sodium Phosphate: (Moderate) Use sodium phosphate cautiously with corticosteroids, especially mineralocorticoids or corticotropin, ACTH, as concurrent use can cause hypernatremia. Potassium Salts: (Moderate) Concomitant use of systemic sodium chloride, especially at high doses, and corticosteroids may result in sodium and fluid retention. Assess sodium chloride intake from all sources, including intake from sodium-containing intravenous fluids and antibiotic admixtures. Carefully monitor sodium concentrations and fluid status if sodium-containing drugs and corticosteroids must be used together. Potassium: (Moderate) Corticotropin can cause alterations in serum potassium levels. The use of potassium salts or supplements would be expected to alter the effects of corticotropin on serum potassium levels. Also, there have been reports of generalized tonic-clonic seizures and/or loss of consciousness associated with use of bowel preparation products in patients with no prior history of seizure disorder. Therefore, magnesium sulfate; potassium sulfate; sodium sulfate should be administered with caution during concurrent use of medications that lower the seizure threshold such as systemic corticosteroids. Potassium-sparing diuretics: (Minor) The manufacturer of spironolactone lists corticosteroids as a potential drug that interacts with spironolactone. Intensified electrolyte depletion, particularly hypokalemia, may occur. However, potassium-sparing diuretics such as spironolactone do not induce hypokalemia. In fact, hypokalemia is one of the indications for potassium-sparing diuretic therapy. Therefore, drugs that induce potassium loss, such as corticosteroids, could counter the hyperkalemic effects of potassium-sparing diuretics. Pramlintide: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Prasterone, Dehydroepiandrosterone, DHEA (Dietary Supplements): (Moderate) Corticosteroids blunt the adrenal secretion of endogenous DHEA and DHEAS, resulting in reduced DHEA and DHEAS serum concentrations. Prasterone, Dehydroepiandrosterone, DHEA (FDA-approved): (Moderate) Corticosteroids blunt the adrenal secretion of endogenous DHEA and DHEAS, resulting in reduced DHEA and DHEAS serum concentrations. Propranolol: (Moderate) Patients receiving corticosteroids during propranolol therapy may be at increased risk of hypoglycemia due to the loss of counter-regulatory cortisol response. This effect may be more pronounced in infants and young children. If concurrent use is necessary, carefully monitor vital signs and blood glucose concentrations as clinically indicated. Purine analogs: (Minor) Concurrent use of purine analogs with other agents which cause bone marrow or immune suppression such as other antineoplastic agents or immunosuppressives may result in additive effects. Pyridostigmine: (Minor) Corticosteroids may interact with cholinesterase inhibitors including ambenonium, neostigmine, and pyridostigmine, occasionally causing severe muscle weakness in patients with myasthenia gravis. Glucocorticoids are occasionally used therapeutically, however, in the treatment of some patients with myasthenia gravis. In such patients, it is recommended that corticosteroid therapy be initiated at low dosages and with close clinical monitoring. The dosage should be increased gradually as tolerated, with continued careful monitoring of the patient's clinical status. Pyrimidine analogs: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Quetiapine: (Major) QT prolongation has occurred during concurrent use of quetiapine and medications known to cause electrolyte imbalance. Therefore, caution is advisable during concurrent use of quetiapine and corticosteroids. Rapacuronium: (Moderate) Caution and close monitoring are advised if corticosteroids and neuromuscular blockers are used together, particularly for long periods, due to enhanced neuromuscular blocking effects. In such patients, a peripheral nerve stimulator may be of value in monitoring the response. Concurrent use may increase the risk of acute myopathy. This acute myopathy is generalized, may involve ocular and respiratory muscles, and may result in quadriparesis. Elevation of creatine kinase may occur. Clinical improvement or recovery after stopping corticosteroids may require weeks to years. Repaglinide: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Ritodrine: (Major) Ritodrine has caused maternal pulmonary edema, which appears more often in patients treated concomitantly with corticosteroids. Patients so treated should be closely monitored in the hospital. Rituximab: (Moderate) Rituximab and corticosteroids are commonly used together; however, monitor the patient for immunosuppression and signs and symptoms of infection during combined chronic therapy. Rituximab; Hyaluronidase: (Moderate) Rituximab and corticosteroids are commonly used together; however, monitor the patient for immunosuppression and signs and symptoms of infection during combined chronic therapy. Rocuronium: (Moderate) Caution and close monitoring are advised if corticosteroids and neuromuscular blockers are used together, particularly for long periods, due to enhanced neuromuscular blocking effects. In such patients, a peripheral nerve stimulator may be of value in monitoring the response. Concurrent use may increase the risk of acute myopathy. This acute myopathy is generalized, may involve ocular and respiratory muscles, and may result in quadriparesis. Elevation of creatine kinase may occur. Clinical improvement or recovery after stopping corticosteroids may require weeks to years. Rotavirus Vaccine: (Severe) Live virus vaccines should generally not be administered to an immunosuppressed patient. Live virus vaccines may induce the illness they are intended to prevent and are generally contraindicated for use during immunosuppressive treatment. The immune response of the immunocompromised patient to vaccines may be decreased, even despite alternate vaccination schedules or more frequent booster doses. If immunization is necessary, choose an alternative to live vaccination, or, consider a delay or change in the immunization schedule. Practitioners should refer to the most recent CDC guidelines regarding vaccination of patients who are receiving drugs that adversely affect the immune system. Children who are receiving high doses of systemic corticosteroids (i.e., greater than or equal to 2 mg/kg prednisone orally per day) for 2 weeks or more may be vaccinated after steroid therapy has been discontinued for at least 3 months in accordance with general recommendations for the use of live-virus vaccines. The CDC has stated that discontinuation of steroids for 1 month prior to varicella virus vaccine live administration may be sufficient. Budesonide may affect the immunogenicity of live vaccines. An open-label study examined the immune responsiveness to varicella vaccine in 243 pediatric asthma patients who were treated with budesonide inhalation suspension 0.251 mg daily (n = 151) or non-corticosteroid asthma therapy (n = 92). The percentage of patients developing a seroprotective antibody titer of at least 5 (gpELISA value) in response to the vaccination was slightly lower in patients treated with budesonide compared to patients treated with non-corticosteroid asthma therapy (85% vs. 90%). Even though no patient treated with budesonide inhalation suspension developed chicken pox because of vaccination, live-virus vaccines should not be given to individuals who are considered to be immunocompromised until more information is available. Rubella Virus Vaccine Live: (Severe) Live virus vaccines should generally not be administered to an immunosuppressed patient. Live virus vaccines may induce the illness they are intended to prevent and are generally contraindicated for use during immunosuppressive treatment. The immune response of the immunocompromised patient to vaccines may be decreased, even despite alternate vaccination schedules or more frequent booster doses. If immunization is necessary, choose an alternative to live vaccination, or, consider a delay or change in the immunization schedule. Practitioners should refer to the most recent CDC guidelines regarding vaccination of patients who are receiving drugs that adversely affect the immune system. Children who are receiving high doses of systemic corticosteroids (i.e., greater than or equal to 2 mg/kg prednisone orally per day) for 2 weeks or more may be vaccinated after steroid therapy has been discontinued for at least 3 months in accordance with general recommendations for the use of live-virus vaccines. The CDC has stated that discontinuation of steroids for 1 month prior to varicella virus vaccine live administration may be sufficient. Budesonide may affect the immunogenicity of live vaccines. An open-label study examined the immune responsiveness to varicella vaccine in 243 pediatric asthma patients who were treated with budesonide inhalation suspension 0.251 mg daily (n = 151) or non-corticosteroid asthma therapy (n = 92). The percentage of patients developing a seroprotective antibody titer of at least 5 (gpELISA value) in response to the vaccination was slightly lower in patients treated with budesonide compared to patients treated with non-corticosteroid asthma therapy (85% vs. 90%). Even though no patient treated with budesonide inhalation suspension developed chicken pox because of vaccination, live-virus vaccines should not be given to individuals who are considered to be immunocompromised until more information is available. Salicylates: (Moderate) Salicylates or NSAIDs should be used cautiously in patients receiving corticosteroids. While there is controversy regarding the ulcerogenic potential of corticosteroids alone, concomitant administration of corticosteroids with aspirin may increase the GI toxicity of aspirin and other non-acetylated salicylates. Withdrawal of corticosteroids can result in increased plasma concentrations of salicylate and possible toxicity. Concomitant use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of adverse GI events due to NSAIDs. Although some patients may need to be given corticosteroids and NSAIDs concomitantly, which can be done successfully for short periods of time without sequelae, prolonged coadministration should be avoided. Salsalate: (Moderate) Salicylates or NSAIDs should be used cautiously in patients receiving corticosteroids. While there is controversy regarding the ulcerogenic potential of corticosteroids alone, concomitant administration of corticosteroids with aspirin may increase the GI toxicity of aspirin and other non-acetylated salicylates. Withdrawal of corticosteroids can result in increased plasma concentrations of salicylate and possible toxicity. Concomitant use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of adverse GI events due to NSAIDs. Although some patients may need to be given corticosteroids and NSAIDs concomitantly, which can be done successfully for short periods of time without sequelae, prolonged coadministration should be avoided. Semaglutide: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. SGLT2 Inhibitors: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Smallpox Vaccine, Vaccinia Vaccine: (Severe) Live virus vaccines should generally not be administered to an immunosuppressed patient. Live virus vaccines may induce the illness they are intended to prevent and are generally contraindicated for use during immunosuppressive treatment. The immune response of the immunocompromised patient to vaccines may be decreased, even despite alternate vaccination schedules or more frequent booster doses. If immunization is necessary, choose an alternative to live vaccination, or, consider a delay or change in the immunization schedule. Practitioners should refer to the most recent CDC guidelines regarding vaccination of patients who are receiving drugs that adversely affect the immune system. Children who are receiving high doses of systemic corticosteroids (i.e., greater than or equal to 2 mg/kg prednisone orally per day) for 2 weeks or more may be vaccinated after steroid therapy has been discontinued for at least 3 months in accordance with general recommendations for the use of live-virus vaccines. The CDC has stated that discontinuation of steroids for 1 month prior to varicella virus vaccine live administration may be sufficient. Budesonide may affect the immunogenicity of live vaccines. An open-label study examined the immune responsiveness to varicella vaccine in 243 pediatric asthma patients who were treated with budesonide inhalation suspension 0.251 mg daily (n = 151) or non-corticosteroid asthma therapy (n = 92). The percentage of patients developing a seroprotective antibody titer of at least 5 (gpELISA value) in response to the vaccination was slightly lower in patients treated with budesonide compared to patients treated with non-corticosteroid asthma therapy (85% vs. 90%). Even though no patient treated with budesonide inhalation suspension developed chicken pox because of vaccination, live-virus vaccines should not be given to individuals who are considered to be immunocompromised until more information is available. Sodium Benzoate; Sodium Phenylacetate: (Moderate) Corticosteroids may cause protein breakdown, which could lead to elevated blood ammonia concentrations, especially in patients with an impaired ability to form urea. Corticosteroids should be used with caution in patients receiving treatment for hyperammonemia. Sodium Chloride: (Moderate) Concomitant use of systemic sodium chloride, especially at high doses, and corticosteroids may result in sodium and fluid retention. Assess sodium chloride intake from all sources, including intake from sodium-containing intravenous fluids and antibiotic admixtures. Carefully monitor sodium concentrations and fluid status if sodium-containing drugs and corticosteroids must be used together. Sodium Phenylbutyrate: (Moderate) The concurrent use of corticosteroids with sodium phenylbutyrate may increase plasma ammonia levels (hyperammonemia) by causing the breakdown of body protein. Patients with urea cycle disorders being treated with sodium phenylbutyrate usually should not receive regular treatment with corticosteroids. Somatropin, rh-GH: (Moderate) Corticosteroids can retard bone growth and therefore, can inhibit the growth-promoting effects of somatropin. If corticosteroid therapy is required, the corticosteroid dose should be carefully adjusted. Succinylcholine: (Moderate) Caution and close monitoring are advised if corticosteroids and neuromuscular blockers are used together, particularly for long periods, due to enhanced neuromuscular blocking effects. In such patients, a peripheral nerve stimulator may be of value in monitoring the response. Concurrent use may increase the risk of acute myopathy. This acute myopathy is generalized, may involve ocular and respiratory muscles, and may result in quadriparesis. Elevation of creatine kinase may occur. Clinical improvement or recovery after stopping corticosteroids may require weeks to years. Sulfonylureas: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Telbivudine: (Moderate) The risk of myopathy may be increased if corticosteroids are coadministered with telbivudine. Monitor patients for any signs or symptoms of unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, particularly during periods of upward dosage titration. Testosterone: (Moderate) Coadministration of corticosteroids and testosterone may increase the risk of edema, especially in patients with underlying cardiac or hepatic disease. Corticosteroids with greater mineralocorticoid activity, such as fludrocortisone, may be more likely to cause edema. Administer these drugs in combination with caution. Thiazide diuretics: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when non-potassium sparing diuretics, including thiazide diuretics, are coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia, such as corticosteroids. Monitoring serum potassium levels and cardiac function is advised, and potassium supplementation may be required. Thiazolidinediones: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Thyroid hormones: (Moderate) The metabolism of corticosteroids is increased in hyperthyroidism and decreased in hypothyroidism. Dosage adjustments may be necessary when initiating, changing or discontinuing thyroid hormones or antithyroid agents. Tobramycin: (Moderate) Concomitant use of systemic sodium chloride, especially at high doses, and corticosteroids may result in sodium and fluid retention. Assess sodium chloride intake from all sources, including intake from sodium-containing intravenous fluids and antibiotic admixtures. Carefully monitor sodium concentrations and fluid status if sodium-containing drugs and corticosteroids must be used together. Tocilizumab: (Moderate) Closely observe patients for signs of infection. Most patients taking tocilizumab who developed serious infections were taking concomitant immunosuppressives such as systemic corticosteroids. Tolazamide: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Tolbutamide: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. Tositumomab: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Tretinoin, ATRA: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents. Tuberculin Purified Protein Derivative, PPD: (Moderate) Immunosuppressives may decrease the immunological response to tuberculin purified protein derivative, PPD. This suppressed reactivity can persist for up to 6 weeks after treatment discontinuation. Consider deferring the skin test until completion of the immunosuppressive therapy. Tubocurarine: (Moderate) Caution and close monitoring are advised if corticosteroids and neuromuscular blockers are used together, particularly for long periods, due to enhanced neuromuscular blocking effects. In such patients, a peripheral nerve stimulator may be of value in monitoring the response. Concurrent use may increase the risk of acute myopathy. This acute myopathy is generalized, may involve ocular and respiratory muscles, and may result in quadriparesis. Elevation of creatine kinase may occur. Clinical improvement or recovery after stopping corticosteroids may require weeks to years. Typhoid Vaccine: (Severe) Live virus vaccines should generally not be administered to an immunosuppressed patient. Live virus vaccines may induce the illness they are intended to prevent and are generally contraindicated for use during immunosuppressive treatment. The immune response of the immunocompromised patient to vaccines may be decreased, even despite alternate vaccination schedules or more frequent booster doses. If immunization is necessary, choose an alternative to live vaccination, or, consider a delay or change in the immunization schedule. Practitioners should refer to the most recent CDC guidelines regarding vaccination of patients who are receiving drugs that adversely affect the immune system. Children who are receiving high doses of systemic corticosteroids (i.e., greater than or equal to 2 mg/kg prednisone orally per day) for 2 weeks or more may be vaccinated after steroid therapy has been discontinued for at least 3 months in accordance with general recommendations for the use of live-virus vaccines. The CDC has stated that discontinuation of steroids for 1 month prior to varicella virus vaccine live administration may be sufficient. Budesonide may affect the immunogenicity of live vaccines. An open-label study examined the immune responsiveness to varicella vaccine in 243 pediatric asthma patients who were treated with budesonide inhalation suspension 0.251 mg daily (n = 151) or non-corticosteroid asthma therapy (n = 92). The percentage of patients developing a seroprotective antibody titer of at least 5 (gpELISA value) in response to the vaccination was slightly lower in patients treated with budesonide compared to patients treated with non-corticosteroid asthma therapy (85% vs. 90%). Even though no patient treated with budesonide inhalation suspension developed chicken pox because of vaccination, live-virus vaccines should not be given to individuals who are considered to be immunocompromised until more information is available. Vancomycin: (Moderate) Concomitant use of systemic sodium chloride, especially at high doses, and corticosteroids may result in sodium and fluid retention. Assess sodium chloride intake from all sources, including intake from sodium-containing intravenous fluids and antibiotic admixtures. Carefully monitor sodium concentrations and fluid status if sodium-containing drugs and corticosteroids must be used together. Varicella-Zoster Virus Vaccine, Live: (Severe) Live virus vaccines should generally not be administered to an immunosuppressed patient. Live virus vaccines may induce the illness they are intended to prevent and are generally contraindicated for use during immunosuppressive treatment. The immune response of the immunocompromised patient to vaccines may be decreased, even despite alternate vaccination schedules or more frequent booster doses. If immunization is necessary, choose an alternative to live vaccination, or, consider a delay or change in the immunization schedule. Practitioners should refer to the most recent CDC guidelines regarding vaccination of patients who are receiving drugs that adversely affect the immune system. Children who are receiving high doses of systemic corticosteroids (i.e., greater than or equal to 2 mg/kg prednisone orally per day) for 2 weeks or more may be vaccinated after steroid therapy has been discontinued for at least 3 months in accordance with general recommendations for the use of live-virus vaccines. The CDC has stated that discontinuation of steroids for 1 month prior to varicella virus vaccine live administration may be sufficient. Budesonide may affect the immunogenicity of live vaccines. An open-label study examined the immune responsiveness to varicella vaccine in 243 pediatric asthma patients who were treated with budesonide inhalation suspension 0.251 mg daily (n = 151) or non-corticosteroid asthma therapy (n = 92). The percentage of patients developing a seroprotective antibody titer of at least 5 (gpELISA value) in response to the vaccination was slightly lower in patients treated with budesonide compared to patients treated with non-corticosteroid asthma therapy (85% vs. 90%). Even though no patient treated with budesonide inhalation suspension developed chicken pox because of vaccination, live-virus vaccines should not be given to individuals who are considered to be immunocompromised until more information is available. Vecuronium: (Moderate) Caution and close monitoring are advised if corticosteroids and neuromuscular blockers are used together, particularly for long periods, due to enhanced neuromuscular blocking effects. In such patients, a peripheral nerve stimulator may be of value in monitoring the response. Concurrent use may increase the risk of acute myopathy. This acute myopathy is generalized, may involve ocular and respiratory muscles, and may result in quadriparesis. Elevation of creatine kinase may occur. Clinical improvement or recovery after stopping corticosteroids may require weeks to years. Vigabatrin: (Major) Vigabatrin should not be used with corticosteroids, which are associated with serious ophthalmic effects (e.g., retinopathy or glaucoma) unless the benefit of treatment clearly outweighs the risks. Vinblastine: (Minor) Use caution when administering vinblastine concurrently with a CYP3A4 inducer such as dexamethasone. Vinblastine is metabolized by CYP3A4 and dexamethasone may decrease vinblastine plasma concentrations. In addition, because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with antineoplastic agents. While therapy is designed to take advantage of this effect, patients may be predisposed to over-immunosuppression resulting in an increased risk for the development of severe infections. Close clinical monitoring is advised with concurrent use; in the presence of serious infections, continuation of the corticosteroid or immunosuppressive agent may be necessary but should be accompanied by appropriate antimicrobial therapies as indicated. Vincristine Liposomal: (Moderate) Use sodium phosphate cautiously with corticosteroids, especially mineralocorticoids or corticotropin, ACTH, as concurrent use can cause hypernatremia. Voriconazole: (Minor) Voriconazole is an inhibitor of the hepatic CYP3A4 isoenzyme and hydrocortisone is a substrate for CYP3A4. Theoretically, reduced metabolism of hydrocortisone might occur when voriconazole is co-administered. The clinical impact of this potential interaction is not certain. Vorinostat: (Moderate) Use vorinostat and corticosteroids together with caution; the risk of QT prolongation and arrhythmias may be increased if electrolyte abnormalities occur. Corticosteroids may cause electrolyte imbalances; hypomagnesemia, hypokalemia, or hypocalcemia and may increase the risk of QT prolongation with vorinostat. Frequently monitor serum electrolytes if concomitant use of these drugs is necessary. Warfarin: (Moderate) The effect of corticosteroids on oral anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin) is variable. There are reports of enhanced as well as diminished effects of anticoagulants when given concurrently with corticosteroids; however, limited published data exist, and the mechanism of the interaction is not well described. High-dose corticosteroids appear to pose a greater risk for increased anticoagulant effect. In addition, corticosteroids have been associated with a risk of peptic ulcer and gastrointestinal bleeding. Thus corticosteroids should be used cautiously and with appropriate clinical monitoring in patients receiving oral anticoagulants; coagulation indices (e.g., INR, etc.) should be monitored to maintain the desired anticoagulant effect. During high-dose corticosteroid administration, daily laboratory monitoring may be desirable. Yellow Fever Vaccine, Live: (Severe) Live virus vaccines should generally not be administered to an immunosuppressed patient. Live virus vaccines may induce the illness they are intended to prevent and are generally contraindicated for use during immunosuppressive treatment. The immune response of the immunocompromised patient to vaccines may be decreased, even despite alternate vaccination schedules or more frequent booster doses. If immunization is necessary, choose an alternative to live vaccination, or, consider a delay or change in the immunization schedule. Practitioners should refer to the most recent CDC guidelines regarding vaccination of patients who are receiving drugs that adversely affect the immune system. Children who are receiving high doses of systemic corticosteroids (i.e., greater than or equal to 2 mg/kg prednisone orally per day) for 2 weeks or more may be vaccinated after steroid therapy has been discontinued for at least 3 months in accordance with general recommendations for the use of live-virus vaccines. The CDC has stated that discontinuation of steroids for 1 month prior to varicella virus vaccine live administration may be sufficient. Budesonide may affect the immunogenicity of live vaccines. An open-label study examined the immune responsiveness to varicella vaccine in 243 pediatric asthma patients who were treated with budesonide inhalation suspension 0.251 mg daily (n = 151) or non-corticosteroid asthma therapy (n = 92). The percentage of patients developing a seroprotective antibody titer of at least 5 (gpELISA value) in response to the vaccination was slightly lower in patients treated with budesonide compared to patients treated with non-corticosteroid asthma therapy (85% vs. 90%). Even though no patient treated with budesonide inhalation suspension developed chicken pox because of vaccination, live-virus vaccines should not be given to individuals who are considered to be immunocompromised until more information is available. Zafirlukast: (Minor) Zafirlukast inhibits the CYP3A4 isoenzymes and should be used cautiously in patients stabilized on drugs metabolized by CYP3A4, such as corticosteroids. Zileuton: (Minor) Zileuton is metabolized by the cytochrome P450 isoenzyme 3A4. Although administration of zileuton with other drugs metabolized by CYP3A4 has not been studied, zileuton may inhibit CYP3A4 isoenzymes. Zileuton could potentially compete with other CYP3A4 substrates.

PREGNANCY AND LACTATION

Pregnancy

Systemic and rectal preparations of hydrocortisone must be used with caution during human pregnancy. Corticosteroids are generally teratogenic in laboratory animals when administered systemically at relatively low dosage levels. Complications, including cleft palate, stillbirth, and premature abortion, have been reported during animal studies. If hydrocortisone must be used during pregnancy, the potential risks should be discussed with the patient. However, insufficient treatment of an underlying condition (e.g., Addison's disease) during pregnancy is also associated with fetal and maternal risks and the mother may require additional monitoring to ensure adequate replacement during pregnancy and in the post-partum period as requirements return to pre-pregnancy levels. Infants born to mothers who have taken substantial doses of corticosteroids during pregnancy should be monitored for signs of hypoadrenalism. Topical application of hydrocortisone warrants caution during pregnancy as there are no adequate and well-controlled studies. Topical corticosteroids should not be used in large amounts, on large areas, or for prolonged periods of time in pregnant women. Guidelines recommend mild to moderate potency agents, such as topical hydrocortisone, over potent topical corticosteroids, which should be used in short durations. Fetal growth restriction and a significantly increased risk of low birthweight has been reported with use of potent or very potent topical corticosteroids during the third trimester, particularly when using more than 300 grams. Corticosteroids are generally teratogenic in laboratory animals when administered systemically at relatively low dosage levels. The more potent corticosteroids have been shown to be teratogenic after dermal application in laboratory animals. Systemic corticosteroids have been shown to impair fertility in male rats; the impact to human male fertility is not certain.

The use of systemic and rectal hydrocortisone has not been studied during breast-feeding; however cortisol is a normal component of breast milk. Other corticosteroids (prednisone and prednisolone) are usually considered compatible with breast-feeding. It is not known whether topical administration of desonide could result in sufficient systemic absorption to produce detectable quantities in breast milk. However, most dermatologists stress that topical corticosteroids can be safely used during lactation and breast-feeding. If applied topically, care should be used to ensure the infant will not come into direct contact with the area of application, such as the breast. Increased blood pressure has been reported in an infant whose mother applied a high potency topical corticosteroid ointment directly to the nipples. Consider the benefits of breast-feeding, the risk of potential infant drug exposure, and the risk of an untreated or inadequately treated condition. If a breast-feeding infant experiences an adverse effect related to a maternally ingested drug, healthcare providers are encouraged to report the adverse effect to the FDA.

MECHANISM OF ACTION

Endogenous corticosteroids are secreted by the adrenal cortex, and their effects are believed to be due to enzyme modification rather than to a direct hormone-induced action. Corticosteroids are loosely classified into two categories, mineralocorticoids and glucocorticoids, depending on their primary pharmacological activity. Mineralocorticoids alter electrolyte and fluid balance by facilitating sodium resorption and hydrogen and potassium excretion at the level of the distal renal tubule, resulting in edema and hypertension. Glucocorticoids exert some mineralocorticoid effects but are also involved in a number of other metabolic pathways including gluconeogenesis, fat redistribution, protein metabolism, and calcium balance. Hydrocortisone possesses both mineralocorticoid actions and glucocorticoid actions.

Early anti-inflammatory effects of topical corticosteroids include the inhibition of macrophage and leukocyte movement and activity in the inflamed area by reversing vascular dilation and permeability. Later inflammatory processes such as capillary production, collagen deposition, keloid (scar) formation also are inhibited by corticosteroids. Clinically, these actions correspond to decreased edema, erythema, pruritus, plaque formation and scaling of the affected skin.

In the treatment of asthma, corticosteroids block the late phase allergic response to allergens. Mediators involved in the pathogenesis of asthma include histamine, leukotrienes (slow releasing substance of anaphylaxis, SRS-A), eosinophil chemotactic factor of anaphylaxis (ECF-A), neutrophil chemotactic factor (NCF), cytokines, hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids, prostaglandin-generating factor of anaphylaxis (PGF-A), prostaglandins, major basic protein, bradykinin, adenosine, peroxides, and superoxide anions. Different cell types are responsible for release of these mediators including airway epithelium, eosinophils, basophils, lung parenchyma, lymphocytes, macrophages, mast cells, neutrophils, and platelets. Corticosteroids inhibit the release of these mediators as well as inhibit IgE synthesis, attenuate mucous secretion and eicosanoid generation, up-regulate beta-receptors, promote vasoconstriction, and suppress inflammatory cell influx and inflammatory processes. Clinical effects in asthma include a reduction in bronchial hyperresponsiveness to allergens, a decreased number of asthma exacerbations, and an improvement in FEV1, peak-flow rate, and respiratory symptoms. Since corticosteroid effects take several hours to days to become clinically noticeable, they are ineffective for primary treatment of severe acute bronchospastic attacks or for status asthmaticus. Inhaled corticosteroids have no bronchodilatory properties.

PHARMACOKINETICS

Hydrocortisone is administered via oral, parenteral, topical, and rectal routes. Circulating drug binds extensively to plasma proteins, and only the unbound portion of a dose is active. Systemic hydrocortisone is quickly distributed into the kidneys, intestines, skin, liver, and muscle. Corticosteroids distribute into breast milk and cross the placenta. Systemic hydrocortisone is metabolized by the liver to inactive metabolites. These inactive metabolites, as well as a small portion of unchanged drug, are excreted in the urine. The biological half-life of hydrocortisone is 8 to 12 hours.

Hydrocortisone is rapidly absorbed after an oral dose; peak effects occur within 1 to 2 hours.

Intravenous Route

Peak effects of hydrocortisone after intravenous administration occur within 1 to 2 hours.

Intramuscular Route

After intramuscular administration of hydrocortisone, the onset and duration of action depend on the type of injection and the extent of the local blood supply.

Topical Route

Systemic absorption after topical application of hydrocortisone is dependant on the vehicle, the state of the skin at the application site, the use of occlusive dressings, and the age of the patient. Absorption is increased in areas that have skin damage, inflammation, or occlusion, or where the stratum corneum is thin such as the eyelids, genitalia, and face. Factors that can increase systemic absorption of topical hydrocortisone include occlusive dressings, large surface area, frequent application, longer duration of treatment, increased humidity or temperature, and younger age. Topical preparations distribute throughout the area of application but are only minimally absorbed into the circulation. Topical preparations of hydrocortisone are metabolized in the skin.

Other Route(s)

Rectal RouteWhen a suppository containing hydrocortisone acetate is administered rectally, about 26% of a dose is absorbed in normal subjects; absorption may vary across abraded or inflamed surfaces. Hydrocortisone rectal suspension is partially absorbed after rectal administration. In patients with ulcerative colitis, up to 50% of hydrocortisone was absorbed when administered as the rectal suspension.

Intra-articular RouteThe onset and duration of action depend on type of hydrocortisone injection and the extent of the local blood supply.

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